Trailer brake for the discovery 5

[madcow]

Hey guys
Just picked up my disco on Saturday and loving it. Just what I hoped for.

I need to fit a trailer brake to tow my race cars. I have found a factory plug which I think could be the factory harness. However I cant find any manuals, diagrams or information online so far. Does anyone have any suggestions or info?

This is what I have found so far. There is a plug which comes off the brake, and the throttle pedal. I am pretty sure its it. Its dark and cold outside in Canberra and would like an idea on what i'm in for before i go laying down with the multi-meter. I really dont want to run new wiring unless i really have to.

This is the plug I have found: (one at the top with red on it)
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/08/148.jpg

[madcow]

Ok, getting somewhere!
The plug is a Ford plug. I think the D5 uses ford electrical/ecu system? I recall someone telling me the ECU has changed and new dealer tools are needed to connect to it... but that is another story.


So:

the part number on the engine harness side is D2SB-14A459-AA.
The part number you need to plug in is 3U2Z-14S411-EAA

Which looks like this:

127564

At this point I am not 100% sure if the wiring/pin output are correct in the graphic, its a rip from the ford explorer (US) forum.


This is the wiring diagram from the same forum.

Again, I am not sure this is 100% correct! Use at your own risk.
127565


However by the off chance it is correct, it will be highly useful.

Now I am off to my local ford dealer to see if they have a plug in stock *fingers crossed*

[SBD4]

Have you tried topix?

You can subscribe for the amount of time that you need to find and download what you want (workshop manual/wiring diagrams/ TSBs etc).

Browser not supported (https://topix.landrover.jlrext.com/topix/vehicle/lookupForm)

[Grentarc]

Use one of these, chop the end off and solder to a Tow Pro Elite.
Tekonsha - Trailer Brake Control Harness (http://www.tekonsha.com/mobile/products/brake-controllers/2-plug-adapters/trailer-brake-control-harness/TzaIxkVx1cJJgWsByztj%7CSB9Uzk5q133hdopL0ngMec=)

[madcow]

Just checked out TOPIx, everything useful is behind a paywall.


I actually have that brake controller, nobody in Aus stocks it from what I found. Ended up hardwiring it in. Need it setup for Saturday.

[SBD4]

Just checked out TOPIx, everything useful is behind a paywall.


I actually have that brake controller, nobody in Aus stocks it from what I found. Ended up hardwiring it in. Need it setup for Saturday.

Yes, but given that a subscription can be limited in its scope and duration it can be made relatively affordable (very I would say). So, if you are only interested in info for one model and you know its a wiring diagram and you reckon you can find what you want in an hour then you'll pay bugger all to access and download it.

Anyway, good to hear you got it sorted out.

[sniegy]

On Ebay from the States.
Part Number is 3035-P Tekonsha Plug.
Have bought & used plenty.

Just expensive to get here.
In talks with Tekonsha Asia Pacific to get these for the Aus market.

[D5hse]

The grey plug is the same as under the dash in close to same position as a XD,XEFalcon.if a wrecker or someone with them would cut them.

[powella]

I suggest checking the 494 thread as well..

DIY - Installing brake controller (https://www.aulro.com/afvb/l494-range-rover-sport/241119-diy-installing-brake-controller.html)

cheers,
ap

[VRAMBO]

Anyone tried these?? http://www.trailparts.com.au/index/. Full wireless Bluetooth hydraulic or electric brake controller. Have one fitted on a new trailer at work carrying an excavator and the guys have told me it works perfect and no need to fit brake controller on 20 different utes or and trucks.
Like how you just plug the unit into which ever car your going to use for towing.

[wazza_dee]

Hi All
I just purchased on line a loadmaster tow hitch rates 3,500kg and doesn't fit the vehicle. Basically the 50 x 50mm stem is 160mm long, while will only slid a max 120mm into the sleeve. Hence the hole for the pin doesn't line up.
The manual states the max distance allowed is 160mm between the middle of the hole for the tow ball to the middle of the whole for the pin. The loadmaster is approx. 280mm, so in non complaint.
Landrover doesn't show a tow hitch for sale and the 3500kg height adjustable hayman reese looks like it will have the same problem as the loadmaster.

Who have the solution

thanks
Warren

[GP1200]

Hi Wazza,
didnt u get a tow hitch tongue with your new D5?

jack

[wazza_dee]

Hi Guys
The manual states 165mm max between the centre of the tow ball and centre of the pin for the Discovery 2017. Trying to find a height adjustable tow hitch appears impossible. Note if the 50 x 50 mm shaft is to long (over 85mm from the centre of the pin the shaft will interferes with the spare tyre.
Anyone found a suitable height adjustable hitch.

thanks
Warren

[wazza_dee]

No tow hitch supplied with the vehicle, has the flat pin and tow bar as standard.

Warren

[IndusD4]

Is the LR hitch for the D5 the same as for the D4 ? In which case I'd hold on to mine.

Ron

[NathanAird]

Doas anyone know where the fuse is on the D5, that runs the constant 12 volts to the pre-wired loom for the trailer brakes? (The plug above the brake pedal).

Thank you.

[Peefjay]

Me too. I just tested the plug after using the Tekonsha plug and harness. The brake switch wire has power, the earth is connected, the brake controller wire has continuity to the 12 pin plug at the tow bar, but the power wire has no power. Got me stumped. Would there be a sensor or relay to detect the load, once the trailer is hooked up?

[Graeme]

IIRC the Tekonsha plug needs to have 1 wire moved to align with the car's socket.

Fusible link 8 is for the 30A trailer brake controller socket power.

[stevo]

Went to test lights on trailer and noticed the direction indicators work opposite to the car at least that is an easy fix but who wires the plugs up as I ordered the tow pack is it the dealer or done at the factory?

[DiscoMick]

Don't know, but did you check the online Tekonsha manual, which is comprehensive?

[IndusD4]

Went to test lights on trailer and noticed the direction indicators work opposite to the car at least that is an easy fix but who wires the plugs up as I ordered the tow pack is it the dealer or done at the factory?

As the "7 pin flat type electrics" and "Tow hitch receiver AUS" are mentioned in TOPIX when checking my VIN, I'm pretty sure these were added in the factory.

Ron

[stevo]

This is where I am thinking of fitting my Tekonsha controller

149708

It will fit in further with a bit of trimming. Putting holes in a car that has not done 6000kms yet this will be a no beer job till the end.

[DiscoMick]

They have to be mounted level so the sensor can sense the change of momentum when you brake and give a reading. It's in the manual, I think from memory.

[stevo]

The Tekonsha units do not have to be level, have had one in the D II on an angle for years never had a problem and having 2 different type of electric brakes which is easy to change and other features I like these units.

[DiscoMick]

Our installer told me it had to be level to give accurate readings, so I suggest you research this further.

[weeds]

When I installed my P3 I don’t recall the instruction saying it had to be dead flat.

[weeds]

Thought so.....From website FAQ

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190401/1d6ae9675cd94e24afae54d91b9618d0.jpg

[SBD4]

My understanding is that the pitch(tilt front to back) does not matter but there must be no yaw or roll in the installation. See page 3 & 4:

http://www.tekonsha.com/support/installation/N90195.pdf

[brumby]

I need to fit an electric brake controller to our Discovery 5 (2017) but after researching for a few days I am confused and hoping someone can set me straight


So I learned from this thread that a Disco 5 has a plug under the dash that is prewired for electric brake control but it uses a so called "Ford" plug. An adaptor plug is available from Tekonsha Part No 3035-P which could then be wired to a Redarc controller with minor changes to the wiring colour but this plug does not seem to be available in Australia (does anyone know where to get it in Oz?)
The plug and cable adaptor is readily available in the USA on ebay but I really need my car fitted soon.
So I thought this must be easy to install so I rang Land Rover in Brisbane and I was quoted $1500 which I guess did not surprise me but I did not ask how they would do it.
I next rang the main independent specialist and was quoted $900. When they told me they run new wiring I asked why they dont use the plug which should be neater and cheaper. After a bit of toing and froing they told me the wiring to the plug was not 'heavy enough' for brake control. So I asked what did Land Rover intend it for if it was not for brake controllers. No clear answer on this.
I then rang two ARB outlets and some recommended auto electricians and they either did not know about the plug or had not fitted a brake control to a Disco. All said they would run new wiring. Prices were all around $800.


I am not so worried about the cost but I would like to use the factory wiring if it is fit for purpose. Can anyone report on having used the factory plug to connect the controller and if they got the plug in Australia.

Thanks
Paul

[Tombie]

One member who did installs at a dealership was importing the plug from the USA.

If you order today it would likely take a week or less to arrive.

[brumby]

I rang the dealer again and they put me on to the technician who fits the trailer brake controllers. He told me the plug is not available in Australia so when he does an install he cuts the wires at the back of the plug and hard wires the Redarc into the factory wiring.

With one exception. He said the factory power wire goes to a 30amp fuse which means no trailer brakes if the fuse blows. He said he runs a new power wire to the battery via an auto reset circuit breaker. This seems to make sense so I plan to follow his advice. I will order a plug from the US as suggested.

[Tombie]

I rang the dealer again and they put me on to the technician who fits the trailer brake controllers. He told me the plug is not available in Australia so when he does an install he cuts the wires at the back of the plug and hard wires the Redarc into the factory wiring.

With one exception. He said the factory power wire goes to a 30amp fuse which means no trailer brakes if the fuse blows. He said he runs a new power wire to the battery via an auto reset circuit breaker. This seems to make sense so I plan to follow his advice. I will order a plug from the US as suggested.

I disagree with this.

If the 30a fuse fails it’s because you have a short.
The last thing you want is a 30a resetting short.

[DiscoMick]

Yes, if a fuse fails or a circuit trips, it's important to investigate the underlying cause.

[Gmed]

Hi, got a new D5 that’s needs trailer brake controller, having difficulty finding someone who seems to know what they are talking about, whom I trust, and doesn’t cost the earth. I know asking a lot.

has anyone actually used this plug, hopefully with a red arc to pro elite v3?

please confirm.

stuart

[stevo]

Hi, got a new D5 that’s needs trailer brake controller, having difficulty finding someone who seems to know what they are talking about, whom I trust, and doesn’t cost the earth. I know asking a lot.

has anyone actually used this plug, hopefully with a red arc to pro elite v3?

please confirm.

stuart

The plug does work and is plug and play, no need to connect extra fuses, but it would be a case of matching the wires on plug to the wires on the controller, there is wiring info on this thread so should not be to hard to figure out, I have towed a variety of trailers in last couple of months with no problems both electric and electric over hydraulic, single axle and dual axle brakes I am using the Teckonsha P3.

[Gmed]

The plug does work and is plug and play, no need to connect extra fuses, but it would be a case of matching the wires on plug to the wires on the controller, there is wiring info on this thread so should not be to hard to figure out, I have towed a variety of trailers in last couple of months with no problems both electric and electric over hydraulic, single axle and dual axle brakes I am using the Teckonsha P3.
I had/have got a tekonsha in my D2, thinking of going to the redarc elite pro... mainly as it is all tucked away

Gotta admit im a bit antsy doing this on a car with<2000km on it and tricky electrics...

I welcome any opinions

[Tombie]

I had/have got a tekonsha in my D2, thinking of going to the redarc elite pro... mainly as it is all tucked away

Gotta admit im a bit antsy doing this on a car with<2000km on it and tricky electrics...

I welcome any opinions

Don’t panic. The electrics aren’t tricky if you follow the designed plans.

[Gmed]

Don’t panic. The electrics aren’t tricky if you follow the designed plans.

Thanks Tombie, i've got the 3035-p, got the red-arc towpro elite v3 on the way... watch this space

[Numb Thumbs]

I have seen a differant thoughts on this one so I will ask the question and hopefully get a straight response...

Does the 19MY Discovery 5 detect a trailer with LED lights? That is, no need for resistors so it can detect it?

Also, does it turn off the rear parking sensors when it detects a trailer?

Cheers
Numb Thumbs ;)

[IndusD4]

My MY18 does recognise trailers with LED lights, no need for any resistors. I would expect later models to work as well. And indeed, the reversing sensors are switched off when a trailer is attached.

Ron

[Gmed]

Thanks Tombie, i've got the 3035-p, got the red-arc towpro elite v3 on the way... watch this space

Well. I pulled off the bottom panel on the drivers side. i could not see the plug that others have talked about, there was a plug, that i couldn't get a good view of, but i don't think it was one that the ford/3035p is meant for. opinions accepted

back to drawing board/auto electrician...
155495155496155497

[Mk1_Oz]

If I understand this thread correctly, the grey underdash factory plug contains everything that is required? It has a 12v power and ground, wire to sense brake activation and a wire pre-connected through to the trailer multi-pin plug?

Was this plug designed by the factory for this purpose or is it something that just works? Concerned about over-loading the 12v supply on this factory wire.....

Anybody got more pics of where they put the Red Arc adjusting knob?

So is the diode in the brake light wire needed or not??

[disco4now]

Well. I pulled off the bottom panel on the drivers side. i could not see the plug that others have talked about, there was a plug, that i couldn't get a good view of, but i don't think it was one that the ford/3035p is meant for. opinions accepted

back to drawing board/auto electrician...
155495155496155497

I have a recent MY20, and like you could not find the plug the first time. I found the two smaller ones taped to the looms above the brake pedal. Did a bit more research and then looked in the correct spot and it is indeed there.

It is directly above the accelerator. Find where the accelerator wires plug in and then look directly above about 10 cm up , its not floating about, but connected to the firewall by one of these plastic plug things. If you are in the right spot you see several yellow connectors for the air suspension ECU.


158315

[Old65]

This cable looks like it could be used for the factory plug. It's used for a USA Ford Explorer. I have emailed but they won't ship. Through Austpost with a US address would be about $35 for the shipping. Available from etrailer.com Part number RED87R

[markoh]

Fellow Discoverers,

Thanks to the posts in this and many other threads, along with some phone contact with the tech team at Redarc, I've been able to install a Redarc Tow Pro Elite (TPE) into my 2019 Discovery 5 SE successfully.

As it turned out, it was actually plug'n'play but some old information found in YouTube videos, threw me off course along the way.

All it took was a Redarc Tow Pro Elite v3 unit, a Redarc TPH-006 cable and a lot of twisting and contortions on my part to get it done. JLR does not make things easy!

For anyone looking for clues for their own installation challenge, read on...

My installation started with finding the factory-installed plug described in earlier posts. This located about 10cm (4") above the brake pedal.

185578

Being so difficult to reach with the probes of a multimeter, I installed the Redarc TPH-006 cable and then measured the voltages of its various pins to verify that all was as advertised. It's difficult to get a decent photo but the Green/Red wire is the power from the battery, which matches up with the black wire on the TPH-006.The blue wire matches the blue wire on TPH-006 and goes to the trailer plug to actuate the brakes. I couldn't quite make out the colours of the other wires in the factory plug but the red on TPH-006 was the brake light while the white wire went to Ground.

185580

My next step was to install the TPE device. Its orientation is of no consequence, but it does need to be mounted in such a way that it can't move. It senses movement, so stringing it up with a couple of cable ties, or with double-sided sticky tape to a flexing surface will not do. After a lot of searching, I found a hole through a mount beside the brake pedal. I fitted a short M10 bolt with nut into this and used it as the anchor for a small L-bracket I made up from some scrap I bound at the back of my workbench. I should have taken some before-photos but I didn't. Hopefully the following will show enough detail.

185581

The most challeging part was fitting the nut to the bolt. In the end, I put some fast-curing epoxy glue (Araldite) under the head of the bolt and pushed it through the hole. After it set, there was enough purchase to be able to get the nut threaded and tighened. The I installed the L-bracket using a second nut. The TPE is fixed to the L-bracket with a couple of M4 bolts and nuts.

Finally, to install the dash mount control, I drilled a 10mm about 35mm to the left of the switch that opens the tailgate, located to the right of the steering column. There's not many places on the D5 to mount the control without removing interior trim. While I can't see while driving, I know where it is and can operate it when needed.

Two pieces of information, gleaned from various places on the internet, slowed me down, leading to unnecessary trouble-shooting.

One was a video that showed how to test the installation if you don't have a trailer, as was my situation. The suggestion was to connect a light globe across pins 3 and 5 of the 12-pin (or 7-pin) trailer plug and the presenter showed this, using a headlamp globe. While the presenter used a headlamp globe (assume 55W), it turns out that the globe needs to be 5-21W, otherwise the unit will not work properly. I found this out the hard way and learned of my error by calling Redarc. I should also mention that Redarc's support was great. I got through to their tech team on three or four occasions without difficulty and was able to get sensible input without delay.


The second piece of information that scuttled my efforts related to the trailer socket pin-out. To make sure I used the right pins, I searched for and found the following.

185583

Very informative, but what I didn't notice was the line of text at the bottom, indicating that the the pin-outs are shown looking from the cable side, not looking into the plug or socket. I spent quite a while tesing without success until I realised the error of my ways. Once I figured it out, all tested correctly.

So, it all works. Had I used the right globe and pins from the outset, it would have taken about an hour, not including the time to make and paint the L-bracket.

I've benefited from many posts on this forum over the years and I hope this contribution helps to pay it forward.

Thank you all.

Mark

[MikeRead]

Hi mates,

New here as I’ve just purchased a 2020 Discovery 5 (not the facelifted model). It’s a L462 SD6 HSE Luxury and is replacing my 2008 VW R50 Touareg that has a lot of off road kit on it that I’m transferring to the Disco. One of the items is my Redarc Tow-Pro Elite. As previous posts have said, the V6 Diesel in my car is the 255kw Ford engine and has the Ford connector for the trailer/caravan electric brake controller fixed high up above the accelerator pedal. It is hiding above another wiring block, but you will be able to feel it with your finger as it has nothing plugged in to it, and pulls away from the mount where it is attached with a white plastic push pin. You can see it in the attached photo (the grey block) where i have plugged in the brown ford connector. I simply pushed it back up to where I pulled it from using the same plastic push pin.
For those of you with a Tekonsha Brake controller the correct wiring harness with brown Ford connector is the 3035-P.
For those of you with the Redarc brake controller, the correct harness which you can purchase from their website is the Ford/Lincoln Harness TPH-006.
I’ve used the Tow-Pro in two VW V10’s and have found it useful to have the control knob very visible and close to hand. You don’t want to be searching for it around your knees if you need to use the override to brake in an emergency! So I have mounted it using Redarc’s round universal mount, per the attached photo, which I think balances the round starter button mounted at the same height on the other side of the steering wheel. You might think, oh no, I’ve ruined the whole leather interior, but the panel the button is mounted in is one of the smallest in the interior and I expect would not be too expensive to have recovered or replaced if the next owner doesn’t want a free brake controller! Cheers. Mike.188168188169188170

[terryob]

im about to buy a D5. can one of you knowledgable people confirm they are factory/dealer fitted with conventional Australian 7 pin trailer plug wiring or is it the euro 2-plug system found on D4

thanks

[Numb Thumbs]

My 2020 is an Australian 12 pin flat.