Napabavarian
Member
I've been trying to do this right and hitting a wall, does anyone know of a quick and dirty tie in that does not cut wires? Most boxes clip wires one way or another and I'd still like to do a proper install latter.
Trailer Wiring OEM Harness vs. Light Module...
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20170809 Edit: Members often ask what parts to buy.
I mounted this to the under panel just aft of the spare tire.
Tekonsha 119147 ModuLite HD Protector Trailer Light Power Module
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ASY29C0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I used ss hose clamps to strap this to the hitch structure.
Hopkins 47185 Multi-Tow Adapter
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002Q80GS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Older model timed brake module. (Fine for small(er) trailers. Ignore "Does not fit".)
Reese Towpower (74642) Brakeman Timed Compact Brake Control
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0016KA9PY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Some (Eg. - Sailquik Roger) prefer a more modern proportional brake controller
https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_...rh=n:15684181,k:proportional+brake+controller
Fits a 2500 140 WB T1N
Reese 33089 Class III Custom-Fit Hitch with 2" Square Receiver opening, includes Hitch Plug Cover
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000RNW5PI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Hopefully it doesn't make the computer on my 2016 angry, I see the difference in some photos, others seem to be the Mercedes part.If you're looking at the Dodge-branded kit, there's no programming. There's also no controller, and it will require cutting wires -- or, as Vic says, soldering taps, which is what I did.
I've used those taps before. They do a good job. The taps definitely support the tapped wire better and cause less wire insulation damage than do the typical crush type. I would apply a bit of Vaseline or other anti-corrosion before clamping them in.... but wonder if anyone has experience with these: https://www.posi-products.com/posiplug.html I suppose the 14-16 gauge taps would work...
Soldering fine if the proper flux is used and IF the conductors are properly supported. The transition region between the solder and the conductor is subject to stress and cracking. That is particularly true if any of the wire strands are nicked....
I’ve read more than once that solder joints have no place on a car, boat, or anything else that moves around a lot. I’ve done plenty myself, but before I knew better.
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Double check that a MB dealership can... will activate the trailer safety TSP if a Dodge harness is installed. If not, I would explore the plug and play E-trailer option mentioned previously.... Tekonsha also makes a pretty nice 7 blade kit (TK22115) but I like the idea of maybe-possibly-someday having Mercedes teach the computer to keep ASR active while towing, which I understand some have had luck with.
Curious to know what route you went. I’ve been researching solutions for my ‘14 and finally decided on a pseudo factory harness. Mercedes says they no longer offer the harness (though they did a few months ago) but Dodge still does (82211251AB) for about $160 (ebay). I’m not above the MOPAR solution of cutting/soldering/shrink tube sealing the splices, but wonder if anyone has experience with these: https://www.posi-products.com/posiplug.html I suppose the 14-16 gauge taps would work... I’ve read more than once that solder joints have no place on a car, boat, or anything else that moves around a lot. I’ve done plenty myself, but before I knew better.
Tekonsha also makes a pretty nice 7 blade kit (TK22115) but I like the idea of maybe-possibly-someday having Mercedes teach the computer to keep ASR active while towing, which I understand some have had luck with.
A couple small corrections.Dodge NCV3 Sprinters were sold in 2007-2009.
Mercedes Benz Sprinters are 2010-2019.
Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) was not offered (nor even invented) until 2012.
So, if you have an NCV3 Sprinter, USA specification, 2012 or later, you need the
Mercedes Benz Trailer Towing Harness Part # A906 440 00 064.
Wiring Kit Only (all models)
A906 440 00 064 all models
Work instructions are available in WIS.
The retrofit kits do not support TSA (Trailer Stability Assist) !!
So, even on the latest (2014-2019 MY Sprinters) you do NOT get (and cannot get)
TSA unless you order it on the original build of the Van.
https://www.mbpartscenter.com/oem-parts/mercedes-benz-electrical-wiring-harness-9064400064
MB Parts center has this part number (the Retro Fit Trailer Wiring Harness) for $19116.
Roger
Given that as your expected use...Though nice to have, TSP (A?) isn’t really what is wanted. The van will continue to spend 98% of its miles shuttling the family around trailer-less, punctuated by the occasional road trip with the camper. I don’t think I could justify spending thousands to retrofit the feature. I’ll just have to use good old fashioned driving skill while pulling with the Sprinter, just like every vehicle I’ve pulled with before.
He uses the VIN of a van which DID have the option from the factory so they are not then 'greyed out'.So if Mercedes can't look up parts that are "greyed out" on their computer after entering my VIN, how are the experts here, like Sailquik, who found this harness part number getting them when the dealer can't? Cause it would be nice to see what Mercedes' own trailer plug looks like.