tomm_mn

Well I've done my searches and read a bunch of threads on the subject and am unfortunately more confused that when I started so I thought I'd just ask for simple recommendations based on your experience. I am going to get a towing setup installed on my 04 S w/PASM. I believe my options are;

1. Go to the dealer and get the Porsche towing package installed by them.
2. Order the Porsche Package and have it installed by my preferred independent shop.
3. Go to a trailer/towing specialist and have them install whatever they think I should have, likely aftermarket I would assume.

I want a brake controller and the best possible setup I can get. Small differences in price are not an issue to me especially if they involve increased amounts of Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt...

Based on this I am inclined to just go to the dealer and have them install it. However...

Among the things I've read here that have caused confusion are;

The price is about $1000

The price is about $1200

The price is over $2000

The Porsche package includes some sort of brake control function - I doubt this.

The installation requires a new bumper - I REALLY doubt this.

The Porsche package provides some sort of integration with the cars electronics, possibly allowing the ECU to "know" there is a trailer and manage things like the PSM and PASM more effectively. - This seems to make sense...sort of...

What's the word oh wise ones???

Toby Pennycuff

Cost of the part after delivery is close to $1000. Labor to install the part after delivery is also close to $1000. The factory part DOES include a towing control module that integrates the towing capabilities into the vehicle's CANbus. The factory towing package DOES NOT include a brake controller. You must buy this separately. Be aware that VW parts are necessary to connect the brake controller to the vehicle's wiring system (you can search for them here on the forum).

AND just for fun (and to see how thoroughly you've searched the forum), let us know if you believe there are any external connections required to make the brake lights work properly.

Good luck.

Toby

ltc

FORE !

ltc

Answer: Installing Trailer Brakes:
QTY: PARTS:
2 000979228
1 1J0972782
1 Brake Controller

Get the first two items from a Volkswagon Dealer (or online VW parts supplier); Porsche does not carry the connectors or wires.

http://www.worldimpex.com/parts/genu...mi_149563.html
http://www.worldimpex.com/search_by_...972782&x=0&y=0

Pictures of these parts are here in posts # 18, #19, #20
https://rennlist.com/forums/porsche-...package-2.html

You can get the controller from your local trailer store or online from
ETRAILER.COM.
Should you decide to go with a Prodigy:
https://rennlist.com/forums/porsche-...-pictures.html


First, remove under tray panel under dash on driver side.
Find 20 torx in center of panel and remove it.

Drop panel down and look for a 4 prong square connector on left side of dash, hanging off of main harness. Might be wrapped with grey foam.

Install the ends of the wires 0009799228
in the 4 slots in the connector, part number 1J0972782.

CONNECTOR IN CAR: WIRE COLOR:

TERMINAL 1: BROWN
TERMINAL 2: RED Check fuse box right
F19, make sure it has a 30 AMP fuse in it.
TERMINAL 3: BLACK/ RED
TERMINAL 4: BLUE

WIRING TO CONTROLLER:

TERMINAL 1: GROUND
TERMINAL 2: B+ POWER ALL THE TIME
TERMINAL 3: STOP LIGHT
TERMINAL 4: TRAILER BRAKE


Godspeed....

tomm_mn

Whoa....good thing I don't have any towing to do this weekend

OK I think this makes sense, and I do recall prior posts making reference to an adapter to go from 4 pin to 7 pin for the lights so I'll assume this is what you were referring to with the "external connections".

In any event, I guess step one is get the towing package installed by the dealer. and be prepared to drop $2K on it....

Thanks Guys! Great stuff.

tomm_mn

Oh Lewis I noticed from the linked post that you run an analog controller yourself but you linked to an install for the prodigy. I agree that the more complex digital controller does not seem to have any advantage, so...any install guides for the Drawtite analog controller that you use?

Thanks again!

Tom

ltc

Instruction manual here:
http://www.drawtite.com/dt5500.html

Installation videos here:
http://www.etrailer.com/pc-BC~5500.htm

I already posted the 4 wire connector information previously; it is just "plug and play".

Of course, I don't own a Cayenne...