ferris11

I have a 2009 f150 xlt. Was trying to figure out where the trailer brake adapter is on this thing, but I can't find it. Looked under the dash where the instructions said it would be, but no luck.
Went to 2 dealers, but they haven't done any '09's yet, so they weren't very helpful.

Does anyone know where the adapter is located so that I can plug it in and connect the brake box?

Thanks

ferris11@hotmail.com

mitchalvin

First of all check and make sure that you have the trailer tow package, without it you will not have the wiring for the brake controller and have to pull wires.

ferris11

The trailer has the tow package - has the built-in 7 pin adapter in the back (along with the 4-pin)

It does not have the "Max-trailer" package, however. It has the tow package.

Thanks

mitchalvin

I believe the "Max-Trailer" package has the factory brake controller on it. You should have the connector for the controller either as a separate purchase or in the glove compartment on the truck. This should match a plug found under the dash. Ford likes to hide the plugs so some searching might be necessary. I have heard horror stories of those with the new diesels looking for the block heater plug located by the passengers tow hook.

Pfierro1

Hmmm
I have the towing pkg too&wondering about checking that plug out myself...Pete

skidflap

my truck came with a bag that has a plug and wires also a relay.
have to put a trl brake on it soon can post more when done.

puzzled2009

Has anyone found that brake controller connector yet? Two dealers' service reps looked under the dash and said not there. I also have that bag in the glovebox. It contains instructions, 2 fuses, and the 14 pin jumper. But the service managers say there is nowhere to plug the jumper into. And they discourage splicing due to computers, warranty, etc..

However, I question the conclusion here that it requires that your truck came with the optional trailer tow package (my new '09 has this option). I believe that all prior years' f150's have a 6 pin brake controller connector as standard equipment, standard wiring, with or without a tow package. There should always be an open connector available under the dash. As proof go to etrailer.com and see the video and instructions for wiring the Tekonsha Voyager brake controller to a 2004-2008 f150. The video shows the 6 pin connector as standard wiring (note that the video involves a truck that has no tow package and only a 4 prong trailer connector at the rear bumper).

Regardless of whether you use an aftermarket brake controller or order the Ford integrated unit to install yourself there should be an open connector under the dash as was standard on the prior years. Doesn't matter to me if its a 6 pin or 14 pin connector, there better be an open brake controller connector somewhere...

Please post if you have found the open connector.

puzzled2009

On my '09 f150 the brake controller connector is plugged into the back of the little plastic cigarette pack-sized cubbyhole to the left of the heating a/c controls. Now I know, but 5 out of 5 Ford Service managers swear it doesn't exist.

ferris11

It's easy to get to, actually, but I wish they had informed us where it truly was so I didn't have to hunt for it. If you take off the plastic moulding over the cubby hole, it's easy to access, instead of going from underneath.
I cut a hole inside that cubby hole and then mounted my brake controller right inside it with a bunch of velcro. Works perfectly.

mitchalvin

Sounds like Ford, I heard of nightmares where people were looking for the plug in block heater on the new power strokes, they are hidden behind the passengers tow hook btw. If you bring in a 94 TD without the powerstroke and a manual you can watch all the techs and service managers take days to look for the computer plugin.