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Tekonsha is a leading manufacturer of electronic trailer brake controllers, pioneering the category in the 1970s. The lineup spans proportional units such as the Prodigy P3 and Prodigy iD, time-delayed controllers, the wireless Prodigy RF, plus vehicle-specific wiring harnesses, adapters and trailer brake components engineered for smooth, predictable stopping at any speed.
Tekonsha Engineering Company began in 1964 building RV steps and mirrors. Within a few years it had found its real calling, and by the 1970s Tekonsha was pioneering the manufacture of electronic trailer brake controllers, the product category that still defines the brand. More than half a century later it remains the reference name in trailer braking and is part of the Horizon Global group alongside Reese, Draw-Tite, Fulton, Bulldog and Wesbar.
A brake controller is the component that tells a trailer's electric brakes how hard to work and when, and getting that right is the difference between a controlled stop and a shove from behind. Tekonsha builds both major types. Proportional controllers use an internal accelerometer to sense how quickly the tow vehicle is slowing and apply trailer braking to match, so light braking stays light and hard braking is immediate. Time-delayed controllers ramp to a preset output over a fixed interval, a simpler and more economical approach that suits occasional towing.
The current brake controller range covers most of that ground. The Prodigy iD pairs with a phone through Tekonsha's EDGE technology for setup and monitoring, the P3 offers storable settings for multiple trailers and a trilingual colour LED display, the Prodigy P2 adds a dimmable display and boost mode for heavier loads, and the Voyager keeps operation simple and dependable. The Prodigy RF mounts to the trailer itself and controls wirelessly, which suits rental fleets and drivers who swap tow vehicles.
Installation is supported by vehicle-specific brake control harnesses that plug into a factory connector rather than requiring cut-and-splice wiring, along with mounting brackets and adapters. Matched controller bundles pair a unit with the correct harness. Products are tested to meet and often exceed published industry standards.
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The 2017-2018 Ford Escape Tekonsha Custom 7-Way + Brake Controller Install Kit (Part #TBCW39489) fits 2017-2018 Ford Escape models. The 2018 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The 2017-2018 Ford Escape Tekonsha Custom 7-Way + Brake Controller Install Kit (Part #TBCW39489) fits the following vehicles: 2017-2018 Ford Escape. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
Yes, the 2017-2018 Ford Escape Tekonsha Custom 7-Way + Brake Controller Install Kit (Part #TBCW39489) is designed to fit the 2017-2018 Ford Escape.
The 2017-2018 Ford Escape Tekonsha Custom 7-Way + Brake Controller Install Kit (Part #TBCW39489) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, the T-Connector (part 118715-037) is designed for Ford Escape vehicles. The installation instructions are specific to this model.
The T-Connector is a trailer wiring interface that connects between your vehicle's taillight wiring and a trailer. It allows you to operate trailer lights using your vehicle's existing taillight circuits.
You will need: Trim Panel Remover, 8mm Socket & Ratchet or 8mm Wrench, Drill with 3/32" Drill Bit, 1/4" Socket, Wire Crimpers, Wire Cutters, Philips Head Screwdriver, and Test-probe.
Yes. You must disconnect the vehicle's Negative (-) battery cable before connecting the power wire to the battery's Positive (+) terminal. Reconnect the Negative cable only after the fuse holder is fully installed and the 15 amp fuse is in place.
Open the tailgate and remove the two 8mm hex head bolts on each side of the taillight assembly. Carefully pull the taillight away from the vehicle, being careful not to damage the alignment pins. Remove the taillight housing and set it aside. Repeat for both driver and passenger sides.
Disconnect the vehicle wiring harness from both taillight sockets. Separate the connector carefully, being careful not to break the locking tabs. Keep all connector surfaces clean and free of dirt. The T-Connector will be plugged in between the vehicle's wiring harness and the taillight socket.
Route the T-Connector with the yellow wire out through the grommet hole on the driver's side. Plug it between the taillight socket and vehicle harness on the driver's side. Route the wire with the green connector through interior trim panels, down the threshold plate, up through the passenger side trim panel, and out through the grommet hole. Route the 4-Flat connector through the driver's side trim panel into the spare tire compartment and store it there when not in use.
The rubber grommet provides a protective opening through which the T-Connector wires are routed out of the vehicle interior. You must remove this grommet to access the opening for wire routing.
Yes. You must drill a 3/32" hole on the driver's side near the connectors to secure the white ground wire with an eyelet and screw. Do not drill into any exposed surfaces. Verify what is behind the surface before drilling to avoid damage to the vehicle or personal injury.
Locate a suitable grounding point on the driver's side near the connectors. Drill a 3/32" hole at this location. Do not drill into any exposed surfaces. Before drilling, verify what is behind the surface to avoid damage to the vehicle or personal injury.
Locate a suitable grounding point on the driver's side near the connectors. Drill a 3/32" hole and secure the white wire with an eyelet using the screw provided. The white wire comes from the T-Connector box.
The black 12 ga. power wire from the T-Connector box must be routed to the vehicle's battery to provide power to the trailer lights. It is connected to the vehicle's Positive (+) battery terminal through a fuse holder and 15 amp fuse.
Route the black 12 ga. wire either through a grommet and along the exterior frame, or follow the existing wiring along the thresholds into the engine compartment up to the battery. Avoid areas that may pinch or break the wire.
A 15 amp fuse is required. Install it into the yellow fuse holder provided after all wiring connections are complete.
After cutting the fuse holder wire, attach the ring terminal to the vehicle's Positive (+) battery cable. Connect the other end of the fuse holder to the black 12 ga. wire using the yellow butt connector provided. Install the 15 amp fuse into the fuse holder after the Negative battery cable is reconnected.
Use the cable ties provided to secure the remainder of the T-Connector harness. This prevents damage or rattling. Be careful to avoid any areas that would pinch, cut, or melt the wire.
Test and verify the installation with a test light or trailer once installed. For the initial test, reset the vehicle electrical system by temporarily removing the key from the ignition. All connections must be complete for the T-Connector to function properly.
Do not exceed the lower of your vehicle manufacturer's rating or: Max. stop/turn light: 2 per side (4.2 amps); Max. tail lights: (7.5 amps). Overloading the circuit can cause fires.
The T-Connector is limited by amperage, not light count. Do not exceed: Max. stop/turn light: 2 per side (4.2 amps total); Max. tail lights: (7.5 amps total). You must also not exceed your vehicle manufacturer's rating. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for additional information.
Wear safety glasses and use all safety precautions during installation. Before drilling, verify what is behind any surface to avoid damage to the vehicle or personal injury. Do not drill into any exposed surfaces. Read and follow all warnings and cautions printed on the tow vehicle's battery. Be careful not to pinch or cut wires when reinstalling trim panels and taillight assemblies.
The manual does not explicitly state whether the spare tire must be removed. However, the 4-Flat connector is routed through the driver's side trim panel into the spare tire compartment for storage when not in use, so access to this compartment is required.
The 4-Flat connector is part of the T-Connector harness. Route it through the driver's side trim panel into the spare tire compartment and store it there when not in use. This connector is used to connect to a trailer.
Yes. After all wiring is complete, reinstall the taillight assemblies and other items removed during installation. Be careful not to pinch or cut the wires when reinstalling.
Before drilling the 3/32" hole for the ground wire, verify what is behind the surface to avoid damage to the vehicle or personal injury. Do not drill into any exposed surfaces.
Verify that all connections are complete. Check that: (1) both T-Connectors (yellow and green wires) are properly plugged between the vehicle harness and taillight sockets on both sides; (2) the white ground wire is securely fastened with the eyelet and screw; (3) the black power wire is connected to the vehicle's Positive (+) battery terminal through the fuse holder; (4) the 15 amp fuse is installed in the fuse holder; (5) the vehicle's Negative (-) battery cable is reconnected; (6) all connector surfaces are clean and free of dirt. Test with a test light or trailer to verify proper operation.
Overloading the circuit can cause fires. Do not exceed the lower of your vehicle manufacturer's rating or: Max. stop/turn light: 2 per side (4.2 amps); Max. tail lights: (7.5 amps). Ensure the 15 amp fuse is installed and that you do not connect more lights than the circuit can safely handle.
The BRAKE mate is a trailer brake control system that allows you to control trailer brakes from your vehicle. It connects to your vehicle's electrical system and includes a brake control unit that mounts under the dash, circuit breakers for power management, and a prewired connector that attaches to your trailer.
The manual does not specify which vehicle makes, models, or years are compatible with the BRAKE mate. Contact Cequent Towing Products technical service at (888) 521-0510 or consult a fitment database to confirm compatibility with your specific vehicle.
Yes. Step 4 of the installation instructions requires connecting the 4-pole flat connector to the vehicle's connector, which means your vehicle must already have a 4-pole flat connector. If your vehicle does not have one, the BRAKE mate cannot be installed using these instructions.
The kit includes: 1 prewired connector, 1 heavy duty flasher, 1 20 amp circuit breaker, 1 40 amp circuit breaker, 5 #10 G-ring connectors, 2 3/8" G-ring connectors, 5 Scotch locks, 8 self-tapping screws, and 6 wire tie straps.
The manual does not specify required tools. However, based on the installation steps, you will likely need a drill (to create a firewall hole if one does not exist), wire strippers, a screwdriver (for self-tapping screws), and possibly a crimper or pliers for ring connectors. Contact technical service at (888) 521-0510 for a complete tool list.
The manual does not specify whether the battery must be disconnected before installation. Contact Cequent Towing Products technical service at (888) 521-0510 for safety guidance before beginning work.
Mount the bracket for the round connector on the bumper if that is where you intend to install it. Some hitches have built-in brackets, so check your hitch first before mounting a separate bracket.
Mount the brake control unit under the dash onto something firm. The unit must be securely fastened to a solid surface.
Mount the 2 circuit breakers (20 amp and 40 amp) end to end on the firewall within reach of the BLUE/BLACK cable. Secure them with the self-tapping screws supplied in the kit.
You may need to drill a hole through the firewall to run the BLUE/BLACK 2-strand wire from the engine bay into the cab. Look for an existing spot first; if none is available, drill a hole and seal it with a rubber grommet or silicone to prevent water and debris from entering the cab.
Some hitch brackets may need to be cut to allow the various connectors to pass through. Check your specific hitch bracket during installation; if it blocks connector passage, you will need to cut it.
Yes. In step 9, you must cut the black wire to create two open ends. These ends are then fitted with ring connectors and attached to the 40 amp and 20 amp circuit breakers respectively.
WHITE = ground wire; BLUE/BLACK = 2-strand power and trailer brake wire (runs from rear connector to front of vehicle and through firewall); RED = power wire from brake control unit; BLUE = trailer brake wire from brake control unit; GREEN = wire from brake control unit to brake switch.
Connect the WHITE ground wire to the frame of the vehicle. This provides the ground connection for the system.
Run the BLUE/BLACK 2-strand wire along the frame rail to the front of the vehicle, avoiding the exhaust, axles, and brake cables. Secure it with the plastic tie straps supplied. Then run it up the firewall, avoiding the steering mechanism, and secure it with ties.
Split the BLUE/BLACK 2-strand wire down the middle. Connect the RED (power) wire of the brake control unit to the BLACK wire using a Scotch lock. Connect the BLUE (trailer brake) wire of the brake control unit to the BLUE wire using a Scotch lock. Connect the WHITE wire of the brake control unit to the ground on the vehicle body. Connect the GREEN wire of the brake control unit to the inactive side of the brake switch.
Run a heavy gauge wire from the battery or equivalent power source to the battery side of either circuit breaker. Attach a #10 G-ring connector to one end of the wire. Then split a wire off this main wire to the 20 amp breaker using a Scotch lock and attach a #10 G-ring connector to the end of this wire. Alternatively, you can run a jumper between the two breakers.
The circuit breakers protect the electrical system. The 40 amp breaker is connected to the auxiliary side of the wire going to the rear connector. The 20 amp breaker is connected to the auxiliary side of the wire going through the firewall to the brake control unit.
The heavy duty flasher is a replacement turn signal flasher. If your turn signals blink too fast after installation, replace your vehicle's original turn signal flasher with the one supplied in the kit.
After attaching the round connector with self-tapping screws, test the connector for: running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and hot wire (power). Note that the brake control output cannot be tested unless a trailer is connected to the connector.
If the turn signals are blinking too fast after installation, replace the turn signal flasher with the heavy duty flasher supplied in the BRAKE mate kit.
After drilling a hole through the firewall to run the BLUE/BLACK wire into the cab, seal the hole with a rubber grommet or silicone to prevent water and debris from entering the vehicle.
When running the BLUE/BLACK 2-strand wire along the frame rail and up the firewall, avoid the exhaust, axles, brake cables, and steering mechanism. These components can damage the wire or be damaged by it. Secure the wire with the supplied plastic tie straps.
Your vehicle must have a 4-pole flat connector. Contact Cequent Towing Products at (888) 521-0510 or check a fitment database to confirm compatibility with your specific make, model, and year.
The kit includes a prewired connector, brake control unit, 20 amp and 40 amp circuit breakers, 5 #10 G-ring connectors, 2 3/8" G-ring connectors, 5 Scotch locks, 8 self-tapping screws, 6 wire tie straps, and a heavy duty flasher.
You may need to drill a hole through the firewall to run the brake wire into the cab if an existing hole is not available. The hole must be sealed with a rubber grommet or silicone.
Connect WHITE (ground) to frame, RED (power) to BLACK wire, BLUE (trailer brake) to BLUE wire, GREEN to brake switch, and run BLUE/BLACK from rear connector through firewall to brake control unit.
Test for running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and hot wire (power). Brake control output cannot be tested without a trailer connected. If turn signals blink too fast, replace the flasher with the one supplied.
Avoid routing the BLUE/BLACK wire near the exhaust, axles, brake cables, or steering mechanism. Secure all wires with the supplied plastic tie straps.
1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 - 2018 | Ford Escape | — |
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