Installing factory brake controller?

[The_Auto_Tech]

Anyone installed the factory trailer brake controller on a vehicle that didn't have it? I found the harness and connector in my glove box that looks like it would go to an aftermarket one, but would rather just use the factory brake controller if possible. Thanks!

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[Rinn69]

Following.

 

[Popplemer]

I have done this on my 21 XLT. You need to get the brake squeeze jobber/manual actuator that goes on the dash and theres a module that goes up under the dash on the left side by where your left foot sits. That has 2 multi wire plugs (gray connector and black connector) and replaces a module that's already there. Then you just have to activate it with Forscan. Really easy job.

 

[The_Auto_Tech]

I have done this on my 21 XLT. You need to get the brake squeeze jobber/manual actuator that goes on the dash and theres a module that goes up under the dash on the left side by where your left foot sits. That has 2 multi wire plugs (gray connector and black connector) and replaces a module that's already there. Then you just have to activate it with Forscan. Really easy job.

Thanks for that info! One of the guys over on FB said this is the part number that includes the module and switch - ML3Z19H332AB

I'll probably order it tomorrow as I've gotta call out to Ford for a couple other things as well.

 

[Popplemer]

Thanks for that info! One of the guys over on FB said this is the part number that includes the module and switch - ML3Z19H332AB

I'll probably order it tomorrow as I've gotta call out to Ford for a couple other things as well.

That's about what I paid. I don't have the part number I used handy but I'm sure that's the same one. As I said it's a super simple job. Just pull off the coin holder and unplug the connector from the coin holder, slap in the dash actuator and replace that module under the left side of the dash. Depending on how cool your dealer is you might be able to get them to activate it so you don't have to mess with Forscan.

 

[The_Auto_Tech]

That's about what I paid. I don't have the part number I used handy but I'm sure that's the same one. As I said it's a super simple job. Just pull off the coin holder and unplug the connector from the coin holder, slap in the dash actuator and replace that module under the left side of the dash. Depending on how cool your dealer is you might be able to get them to activate it so you don't have to mess with Forscan.

Very true. I already bought a cable to be able to do the truck and have had FORScan for quite a while now as I also use it for my 13 Flex and 13 Raptor. It's honestly about as easy to use as the scan tool I have for my shop so most of the time I just use it for Ford stuff when it comes in. lol

 

[Popplemer]

Very true. I already bought a cable to be able to do the truck and have had FORScan for quite a while now as I also use it for my 13 Flex and 13 Raptor. It's honestly about as easy to use as the scan tool I have for my shop so most of the time I just use it for Ford stuff when it comes in. lol

Oh good I'm glad you're well versed in it. Whenever I boot it up, make my changes and hit write, I can't shake the feeling that the truck will immediately implode like that millionaire tourist submarine last year.

 

[The_Auto_Tech]

Oh good I'm glad you're well versed in it. Whenever I boot it up, make my changes and hit write, I can't shake the feeling that the truck will immediately implode like that millionaire tourist submarine last year.

For sure. You CAN mess things up, but there's a reason it tells you to save your as-built data as a backup. lol

 

[tony72cutlass's']

Following I have the same idea and would like to do this

Would you mind posting a couple pics when you install it?

 

[Static]

There's some decent instructions on the motorcraftservice website.
https://www.motorcraftservice.com/instructionsheets
For my 2021 it's towards the bottom of the list.

 

[Rinn69]

Seems like an easy mod / addition.....I just hope it will work on my '24 XL RCSB when I get it since the TB isn't even an option

 

[tony72cutlass's']

As

There's some decent instructions on the motorcraftservice website.
https://www.motorcraftservice.com/instructionsheets
For my 2021 it's towards the bottom of the list.

Awesome!

Any idea if you need forscan to activate it?

 

[Popplemer]

As

Awesome!

Any idea if you need forscan to activate it?

I can confirm that you need forscan to activate it.

 

[bgalakazam]

I installed the -AA version in my 2021 and after Forscan it is recognized and works. The part number is for both the module and the buttons. I had another "controller" box that I swapped with the TBC one near the pedals.

I read somewhere that a TBC is required in certain states to tow past 5,000 (even though my truck is rated 7,000 and came without it). Was an easy swap.

 

[TexasTruck]

After I self installed mine, setup ForScan, ForScan/DTC shows an IPC TBC initialization needed something code. I did some research and there is an extra step needed to “teach” the trailer sway hootenanny whatchamacallit you now have a TBC.

I have used mine and it works well, but I wasn’t towing at highway speeds to notice any swaying going on….

Otherwise like those above, the install is easy and if you’re ForScan savvy you’re on your way…. I did check with my dealership about programming it. I kept getting the runaround which made me leery about their ability to not mess something up….

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