Brake Controller 2005 T4R Sport v6
- Thread starter bzizzi
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TheBlueWave
New member
bzizzi said:
Nope, you need to get a unit and plug it in under the dash to the left of the steering wheel. Instructions will be included in the controller kit.
bzizzi
Member
I know I need a brake controller unit and need to mount it under the dash,but is the wiring there from the factory if I have towing package ??? I found this web site and it answered my question.
http://www.etrailer.com/bc-2005_Toyota_4Runner.htm
http://www.etrailer.com/bc-2005_Toyota_4Runner.htm
Last edited:
TheBlueWave
New member
bzizzi said:
Ahh, I see. I thought you were asking if a brake controller is part of the system in stock form. I now understand you were asking if another wiring mount for the rear near the hitch is required, and the answer obviously is no :bash:
TechWrench
Senior Member
bzizzi said:
If you have the factory installed tow package, then you will have the plug in the wire harness on the left driver side under the dash. You should also have gotten a wire harness adapter for the brake controller in a plastic bag. The instructions are in the owners manual on how to locate the plug-in under the dash. The instructions for the brake controller you get should tell you how to wire it to the Toyota adapter harness.
boston_kevin
New member
bzizzi said:
With the hitch upgrade (to the V8 style hitch) and the brake controller, you should also consider adding a transmission cooler (standard on the V8's), you can tow about 6500 lbs which is 1500 pounds more than the stock hitch will allow. Now also keep in mind you have less power to pull that load than a V8, so you will have to use your gears a lot more to maintain speed.
I have towed a 4500 lb boat (plus gas and oys) and trailer with a full car of passengers across 150 miles with no problems, but this was mostly flat terrain - no mountains to cross.
TechWrench
Senior Member
bzizzi said:
My 'new to me' travel trailer is about 6,100 fully loaded, and I just returned from a 300 mile round trip to the Adirondacks. The V6 had to work some on the hills, and I kept it in D3 to keep the trans out of OD, so my MPG was in the 9-10 range. I kept it under 65 on the interstate, and had no problems. The equalizer hitch kept the ride level, and I had no sway or control problems. If you are going to push the upper limit on your tow rating, you have to be aware of how you drive and allow for additional stopping distances. I felt comfortable with the tow, but I have towed a lot, and am aware of what to look out for. Just make sure the WD hitch is adjusted properly, the trailer is load balanced, you have good tires and they are properly inflated. Also make sure the brake controller is adjusted properly, and the trailer brakes are in good working order. If you are not experienced with towing heavier loads, try a few short runs first to get aclimated to the extra care needed on turns. Get a set of extension mirrors so you can see around the trailer, if needed, and learn how to back up with the trailer. Practice in a big empty parking lot, if needed.
The main thing is to be careful, and if you are not comfortable with the way it rides, don't make the trip.
CJ3Flyr
Super Moderator
TechWrench said:
Fantastic advice! The last sentence sums it up.:bigok: When driving the rig it should feel heavy, big etc., it will bounce around more than normal. It should never feel scary. If it does feel scary your WD hitch or brakes or both aren't setup properly (or you're driving like a madman :bugeye::rocker: ).
:cheers:
jediwebdude
New member
This isn't entirely relevant, but gonna say it anyway. My 2005 V6 4WD SR5 did fine for pulling my cargo trailer full of astronomy toys (it had factory towing pkg). When we decided to get an RV, I told my wife I needed the V8 4Runner. This served as an excuse for me to upgrade more than just the engine. 
After getting trading in the V6 for a 2007 JBL audio system equipped V8 SE 4WD with factory towing pkg, I am happy to report that I pull our 5200 lb 24 ft RV (rear hard slide expands it to 29 ft) with no problems (weight includes full propane tanks).
BTW...the brake controller plug was easy to locate.
I'm sure we'll upgrade to a Sequoia 5.7L when the kids get bigger, but I'm in no hurry. I love this 4Runner.
-PJ
After getting trading in the V6 for a 2007 JBL audio system equipped V8 SE 4WD with factory towing pkg, I am happy to report that I pull our 5200 lb 24 ft RV (rear hard slide expands it to 29 ft) with no problems (weight includes full propane tanks).
BTW...the brake controller plug was easy to locate.
I'm sure we'll upgrade to a Sequoia 5.7L when the kids get bigger, but I'm in no hurry. I love this 4Runner.
-PJ
