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This question just came up. Does the tow package include trailer brakes capability? If not, what is the best way to hook that up. Doubt we will tow much even close to 3000#, but nice to know.
THX
I'm interested in this topic too. My GX comes with the factory installed tow package that has both 5 and 7 way connectors on the back. I assume I just connect one of them to whatever connector the trail has and it's good to go since either one of them has brake control signal. So I need to understand what other functions you need from installing a aftermarket brake controller and how it interacts with the factory circuits.
Typically the center pin on the connector is electric brake control. I don't know yet, but suspect that the GX doesn't have elect brake controller installed. You need trailer brakes on any trailer over 3000 lbs. I believe that's the law, but you probably should have trailer brakes on anything even much less. Especially if mountain driving, or anything over 55 mph is going to be encountered. I think a 12 volt trouble light, hooked up to the ground, and the center pin, should light up when the brakes are applied if elect trailer brake controller is installed.
I took a picture of the schematic of the connector and there is an electrical brake control signal in the 7 pin one. So I still don't understand why we need aftermarket brake control.
GX 460 towing connector schematic
That was my question. There may not be a controller with the brake package to apply power to the center pin. In other words, the center pin will be un-powered without the controller.
So does the controller come with the tow package, or do you need to add it?
You need to add the brake controller. There should be a wiring harness in the glove box or pocket on the back of one of the front seats to plug the controller right in, but you have to purchase a controller and mount it under the dash. It adjusts the amount of braking needed for whatever load you are towing.
Thanks guys. I confirmed this by pulling out my multi-meter and measuring the electric brake pin in the connector while my wife pressed on the brake and there was no voltage. So the tow package is just pre-wire only for brake controller. I did a little research and surprised that even a lot of pickup trucks do not provide factory installed electric brake controller. I'll probably go with autowbrake since I only need to tow one RV trailer.
You need to add the brake controller. There should be a wiring harness in the glove box or pocket on the back of one of the front seats to plug the controller right in, but you have to purchase a controller and mount it under the dash. It adjusts the amount of braking needed for whatever load you are towing.
Thank You. I appreciate the straight forward answer, instead of being chastised for asking. Again, thanks
Just installed the Factory Hitch Receiver on my 2012 GX. This thread was a great help. Found the hitch receiver at Parts.com for $270. Took me a little over two hours to install, but everything was pretty clear by using this thread. Working under the car was a lot easier due to the high ground clearance.
Thanks to the OP for such a great tutorial.
hate to resurrect this thread but can someone upload instruction for this hitch please. Got a great deal on a used one!
12-06-16, 03:57 AM
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Tow package?
