We're picking up our new 13 footer in early July. Because we are towing with a 4 cylinder Subaru, we have decided to have trailer brakes installed. I visited a local shop today that installs hitches and got a price of $330.00 to install the brake controller and wiring. There is already a hitch with the straight four point plug on the vehicle which I use for towing a boat or a trailer. The Tekonsha brake controller at the shop is $110.00 and is included in the price. I'm wondering if $330.00 is a reasonable price for installing the brake controller and additional wiring. This is in Connecticut, where prices and labor charges are a bit higher. Thanks. Anthony
Doesn't sound outlandish for a shop install, Anthony. You mention a 4 pin, do you have a 7pin connector as well? Scamp will need the 7 pin connector.
Good decision on the brakes. You'll have a great trip picking up.
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That's in line with what I paid (a bit less actually) for an install on an Outback with the same circumstances of existing 4 pin. I ordered (from etrailer) the controller and a universal kit that included wiring and the materials to keep access to a 4 pin connection and add the 7 pin and handed it all over the the mechanic I usually work with.
RocheACri, so did you end up with both the 4 pin and seven pin plugs or did you get the adaptor. Thanks. Anthony
Anthony Memoli
Anthony,
I have both on one connector, although my mechanic mentioned that the adaptor was another option. The kit came with the connector and used the existing 4 pin wiring and worked off that. I'm pretty sure this link is the kit I bought. https://www.etrailer.com/Accessories-and-Parts/etrailer/ETBC7.html
Sarah
$330 is a good price, The controller as stated is about $110, 7 pin plug and mounting bracket about $25, E-trailer brake wiring kit with power, brake wires nd breakers about $75. It's really a PIA to find, identify and attach to the correct brake pedal wire. The labor looks to be under $100 you got a deal. I've done one on my own car and would gladly pay someone $100. if I had to do it again.
Eddie
O.K. thanks everyone! I scheduled it to go into the shop next week.
Greg, No, I don't have the seven pin connector. That is included. The shop said they would replace the 4 pin with the 7 pin and there is an adapter for the 4 pin when I want to pull one of my other trailers. I'm wondering if it would be just as easy to leave the 4 pin connector there and add a new 7 pin setup. Then I wouldn't need an adaptor.
Anthony Memoli
I recommend getting the adapter. The 4-pin is just another invitation for water intrusion and corrosion.
I have the adapter and it is very easy to use, just Plug-N-Play !!!!
As Always,
Happy Scamping !!!
I also tow with a Outback. I had a RF controller installed. Cost of controller at Scamp - $325. Cost to wire Outback at B&L Automotive in Backus- labor $118.50 . Parts $59.25. Scamp put the controller on the trailer.
Doug
That's about what I paid out here in the Ozarks from my local mechanic. It was more than I was expecting, but it seems to be a good price. I don't think you will do any better.
If you look up the videos online about how to wire up a 7-pin with brake controller on an Outback, you'll get an idea of the steps involved. That sounds reasonable. Put it this way, it's the kid of job that could take all day for someone who doesn't have a lift or the right tools or experience.
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