Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional
(41 reviews)
Price: $162.51
In Stock
Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional
Item # 58-8
Retail:$223.10
Our Price: $162.51
You Save: $60.59
In Stock
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Dexter Trailer Brake Controller - 58-8
- Electric
- Up to 2 Axles
- Proportional Controller
- Dexter
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Manual Leveling
- LED Display
- Up to 125 Degrees
This proportional brake controller keeps it simple with intuitive controls that are easy to use. Includes a large digital LED display, fingertip gain control, a slide-bar manual override, and built-in safety features.
Features:
- Brake controller activates your trailer brakes in proportion to your vehicle's braking action
- Automatically adjusts trailer's braking based on deceleration of tow vehicle
- Large digital LED display shows your controller settings and monitors voltage output
- Simple, intuitive controls keep your settings in easy reach
- Adjustable gain setting determines the amount of braking output sent to the trailer's brakes
- Built-in, slide-bar manual override activates trailer brakes to control sway in emergency situations
- Deceleration sensor lever lets you adjust initial braking power and aggressiveness for smooth, safe braking
- Built-in safeguards protect your vehicle and trailer
- Current limiter protects vehicle from shorts in the trailer wiring
- Hazard flasher immunity prevents pulsing of the brakes when flashers are activated
- Quick and easy mounting with included bracket and hardware
- 90 To -35 degree mounting range - must be horizontally level
- Pigtail harness hardwires into your vehicle
- Made in the USA
Specs:
- Application: trailers with up to 2 axles (4 brake assemblies)
- Compatible with electric brakes only
- Dimensions: 6-1/2" long x 3" wide x 1-5/8" tall
- Mounting angle: -35 degrees to 90 degrees vertically
- 7-Year limited warranty
Proportional Braking
The Dexter Predator DX2 brake controller comes equipped with proportional braking to give you the best towing experience. Proportional braking means that your trailer brakes mimic your tow vehicle's brakes. If you slam on the brakes in your vehicle, your trailer brakes will activate with the same intensity; if you brake lightly, your trailer brakes lightly too. The trailer's braking is in proportion to your vehicle's braking. This saves wear and tear on the tires and the brakes on both your vehicle and trailer.
The Predator DX2 uses an internal 3-axis accelerometer to sense how your vehicle is braking so it can send the right amount of braking power to your trailer. It measures the inertia of your tow vehicle and activates the trailer's brakes to slow at the same rate. The result is uniform braking across your towing setup. No push-pull action - just smooth, proportional braking every time.
Large Digital LED Display
The Dexter Predator DX2 features a large LED display that's easy to see so you can check on your current braking output setting with a glance. This display is designed to keep it simple and not overload you with information. The display will also show you the voltage to confirm that the trailer brakes are receiving power.
Braking Output
During the initial setup process, use the thumbwheel on the front of the brake controller to adjust the braking output. The output control lets you set the maximum amount of power that will be applied to your trailer's brakes. Typically, the output is only readjusted when you experience changing road conditions or if the weight of your trailer changes. The power output control on this brake controller lets you set the maximum amount of power that will be applied to your trailer's brakes. Typically, the power output is only readjusted if you switch from a heavy, loaded trailer to a much lighter, empty trailer - or vice versa.
During the initial setup process, you can use the thumbwheel to adjust the power output. To get more power to your brakes, increase the power level. To decrease the power output, lower the power level.
Sensitivity Adjustment with Deceleration Sensor Lever
Once you have the overall power set, you can fine-tune the power output by adjusting the sensitivity of the internal sensor. This controls the aggressiveness of your trailer's braking, meaning how quickly the brakes reach the maximum braking level. You can adjust this when you're towing heavy loads and you need more umph to bring your trailer to a stop. Your tow vehicle doesn't need that much power to brake in time, but your heavy trailer does. Boost gets the braking power to your trailer brakes faster and with more intensity so that it doesn't push your tow vehicle forward. To increase the sensitivity for towing heavier loads, move the lever away from you. For a lighter load, move the lever toward you.
Slide-Bar Manual Override
The Dexter Predator DX2 comes with a built-in manual override slide-bar in easy reach, great for stopping sway or controlling your trailer's momentum in emergencies. To engage the manual override, just push the slide-bar to the left. This will activate the trailer's brakes and brake lights without you having to apply the brakes on your tow vehicle, perfect for limiting trailer movement while you're cruising.
You can also engage the manual override to help you move a sliding 5th-wheel hitch closer to your truck's tailgate for tight maneuvering during slow speed turns. Just apply the manual override to hold the trailer in place while slowly moving the tow vehicle forward.
Quick, Simple Installation
Because the controller operates with an internal inertia sensor, it must be mounted between -35 degrees and 90 degrees vertically. The Predator DX2 also needs to be horizontally level and parallel with the direction of travel to function properly. During initial installation, the deceleration sensor lever must be positioned straight up and down. After mounting the Predator DX2 using the included bracket, hardwire the controller directly into your vehicle.
Installation Accessories
See etrailer.com's exclusive 7- and 4-way brake-control installation kit (ETBC7 - sold separately) if you don't already have a 7-way plug at the back of your vehicle
Note: One of the following will be required to ensure proper installation:
- 20-Amp circuit breaker (9506P - sold separately) for 2- to 4-brake applications
- 30-Amp circuit breaker (38630 - sold separately) for 6- to 8-brake applications
058-008-00 Dexter Predator DX2 Electric Brake Controller with Inertia Sensor - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional
Replaces 58-8
Customer Satisfaction Score:
93% were satisfied with this product
7% of customers were not satisfied
- Wrong item was ordered
- Defective
- Too difficult to install
Customer Reviews
Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional - 58-8
Average Customer Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars (41 Customer Reviews)
This proportional brake controller keeps it simple with intuitive controls that are easy to use. Includes a large digital LED display, fingertip gain control, a slide-bar manual override, and built-in safety features.by: Rancher01/07/2023
Finally a brake controller that does what I set it to, not what it’s little computer brain, designed by someone who has never pulled a trailer thinks it needs to do.
by: Michael 09/22/2022
I installed this controller in my 1982 Chevy K20 pickup.
It works perfectly! Etrailer exceeded my expectations with their level of customer service from the time the order was placed to the products arrival at my home. Truly 5-star service!
The video tutorials are straight forward and very helpful.
The universal installation kit literally had everything needed to complete the job.
Side note:
I would have liked to see the (2) 10ga wires in the insulation to be black and blue, not black and white, no biggie, black on black and white on blue.
Thanks again!
by: Bob J.09/07/2016
I am very satisfied with the Dexter Axle Predator Electric Brake controller. I purchased the Dexter brake controller to be compatible with Dexter car trailer axles on a 16 foot car hauler. The braking unit is very useful when towing in very steep and winding mountain terrain. I feel that the braking is a necessary safety item when towing in a hilly or mountainous environment and the Dexter Predator brake controller provides the great control and driver peace of mind knowing that a heavy load can be managed. The unit installs very easily with the proper adapter.
by: Fred09/09/2017
My brake controller was a great match for my needs. I have a 4 brake trailer which gets the proper control from my Dexter unit. From empty weight to heavy load the adjustment is just a slight roll of the knob. I like the digital read out so I can glance down to check system operations. It does great f or me and fit right in to the factory wire set up in my truck
by: roula m07/25/2017
The parts I ordered were shipped and now are installed on a enclosed trailer that carries a variety of motorcycles. The roads are mountainous and treacherous here so I have to be able to 100% depend on my trailer brakes. The brakes have been flawless, giving me total confidence. Perfect parts, great price. Customer service was a 10. Thanks for all your help !
by: Richard12/28/2022
was difficult to find a good mounting location away from leg room
by: Aaron 02/06/2024
Delivered on time and the right parts
by: Mark06/18/2020
Item was shipped promptly and was easy to install works great on my 20,000 pound felling goosneck trailer with 4 electric over hydraulic disc brakes.
by: Gary M.06/01/2015
Just finish installing the brake controller so I have not seen it in operation. Everything that was needed for installation was contained in the package. Due to limited access due to the chosen mounting location getting two of the side screws started took some effort.
by: Terry03/06/2017
This is a great product, installation was easy, instructions accurate and product works as advertised. I would do this all over again if needed.
by: Anthony12/29/2018
A great product. Had it installed by my Benz dealership. No adjustments needed.....factory settings were all I needed to tow my boat and trailer.
by: Dennis 06/06/2023
Everything as described.
by: WalkerEOD11/03/2017
Easy to install and adjust, seems to work well with my Pathfinder. The butt connectors that were included were not the correct size but i wouldn't have used them anyway.
by: Stephen02/05/2022
Easy to set up and use.
by: Chuck 08/03/2022
Products came quickly... what I was looking for.
by: Jim S12/17/2014
Great service from etrailer. I have never had a problem with any products I have bought.
Excellent company.
by: Fred Charlton06/01/2015
good quality product, instructions are easy to follow.
by: Richard 09/12/2022
Easy install and reasonably priced !
by: Roger08/02/2019
All my ordered parts arrived have not installed yet but so far perfect experience.
by: Tim 09/15/2022
FAst shipping
by: Ken07/12/2020
PARTS SHOWED UP ON TIME . HAVE NOT YET INSTALLED
by: Gilberto05/14/2019
So far so good all products worked as a dvertised
by: Mark 01/26/2022
Everything was sent that I ordered. Thank you
by: Richard01/27/2015
Quality product at a good price.
by: Walter06/18/2019
These guys and gals are fast with their deliveries!
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Show More Reviews
See what our Experts say about this Dexter Trailer Brake Controller
- Brake Controller for 1999 Chevy Tahoe Towing a 2006 Fleetwood Bayside Camper with Electric BrakesSince brake controllers are not vehicle-specific, you can use any of our brake controllers with your 1999 Chevy Tahoe and camper. The Dexter Axle Predator Electric Brake Controller, part # 58-8, is a great choice. It is inertia-activated, meaning you have a lot of mounting options for inside your Tahoe, has an LED display showing voltage output, and works with 1 or 2 axles. If you don't already have a 4-way connector on the back of your vehicle, you will need the custom-fit Vehicle Wiring...
view full answer... - Trailer Brake Controller for a 2008 Saab 9-7X with Factory 7-Way Trailer ConnectorThe 24 pin receptacle you are seeing sounds like the OBD2 port and would not be used for a brake controller. You will need to utilize the owners manual or a Saab technician to locate the wires and to determine the functions of those wires. Identifying the wire functions is critical because a brake controller has to be hardwired in since there is no plug and play option available. The wires on a brake controller are as follows: white is ground black is 12 volt power in blue is output to...
view full answer... - Installing a Brake Controller on a 2016 Chrysler Town and Country VanThe 2016 Chrysler Town and Country did not come with a factory installed tow package and a 7-way trailer connector. You will have to hardwire in a 7-way and the all the wiring so you can install your controller. None of the wiring is pre-installed on this model vehicle. The first thing you will need to do is wire in a 4-way flat trailer plug if you have not already done so. You will need a wiring harness, I recommend the Curt T-One harness, # C56331. This harness is custom-fit to your...
view full answer... - When to Use a 20 or 30 amp Circuit Breaker When Installing Brake ControllerYou'd want to use the 20 amp circuit breaker like # PK54220PL unless your trailer has more than two brake axles. If that's the case you'd want to use the 30 amp breaker # 38630.
view full answer... - Fuse and Circuit Breaker Installation Help For Dexter Predator Brake Controller in 2008 GMC SierraWhen installing the Dexter Predator Brake Controller # 58-8 in your 2008 GMC Sierra you will want to follow the Dexter instructions and install the specified fuse and self-resetting circuit breaker as indicated. The vehicle manufacturer installs fuses to protect the OEM electrical components in the vehicle so any aftermarket accessory that is added will need to be protected independently of the factory fuses and circuit breakers. To correctly install the Dexter Predator you will leave...
view full answer... - Recommending the Proper Brake Assembly for 3-Inch Dexter Axle on a 1997 Hudson TrailerThe brake assembly I recommend for you is the Electric Trailer Brake Kit, # AKEBRK-7-SA. These brakes are designed for axle ratings between 5,200 lbs and 7,000 lbs, which is the capacity for three-inch axles like yours. They are self-adjusting, 12-inch x 2-inch brakes that include the left- and right-hand brake assemblies. I have included links to a video review and installation of this product for you. You will need the Mounting Bolts and Hardware for 12-inch Brake Assemblies, # BRKH12...
view full answer... - Troubleshooting Predator DX2 Brake Controller that Only Works with Override LeverThe controller shouldn't have been showing voltage without a trailer connected. Typically this is caused by corrosion on the 7-way which is putting a slight draw on the circuit and causing the controller to think a trailer is connected. If the controller isn't applying the brakes with the brake pedal typically that's due to an issue with the red wire of the controller though. This wire needs to see 12 volts to know you are applying the brakes so that it can then start activating the trailer...
view full answer... - What is the Wire Gauge Used for the Dexter Predator Brake Controller for a 2008 Chevy SilveradoNo problem, I'm happy to help. I went out to the warehouse with our little wire gauge measuring tool to measure the wires on the Dexter Predator # 58-8. They all came up as 14 gauge (btween 12 and 14 but closer to 14). So a butt connector such as # DW05714 would work for the installation.
view full answer... - Troubleshooting No Truck Brake Lights When Manual Override Used on Dexter Predator Brake ControllerAccording to the Dexter Predator # 58-8 Brake Controller installation instructions, if your truck lights are not illuminating properly with the manual override is activated, then you will need to check the red stoplight wiring connection. The brake controller red wire should be connected to the non-powered stop lamp switch wire on your 2008 GMC Sierra. On your specific truck there should be a wiring bundle that is below the steering column, and is to the left of the brake pedal. This...
view full answer... - Parts Needed to Install Dexter Predator DX2 in 1998 Dodge Ram 1500 with 7-WayAll you need to install the Dexter Predator DX2 brake controller part # 58-8 in your 1998 Dodge Ram 1500 with the factory 7-way is the install harness part # 3020-S which plugs right into the port under your dash and then wires color for color to the # 3020-S. No additional breakers needed.
view full answer... - Trailer Brakes Lock Up When Brake Pedal is Pressed Even With Controller Turned All the Way DownHave you tried towing the trailer with another truck? Or towing another trailer with the Dodge? This would help you narrow down whether the problem is with the wiring on the vehicle or the trailer. From what you're describing, it sounds like either something's incorrectly wired on the vehicle or trailer, or the trailer connector on the vehicle is damaged or corroded. This is kind of a strange occurrence, so try what I've mentioned above and get back with me. I've also linked you to our...
view full answer... - Will the Dexter Preadator Brake Controller # 58-8 fit a 2006 Cadillac SRXYes, there is a way to install the Dexter Axle Predator Electric Brake Controller # 58-8 in your 2006 Cadillac SRX. The first thing you need is a 4-way trailer connection at the rear of your vehicle. You may already have this, but if not you will need part # C59496. This comes with everything you would need to install the 4-way, I attached install instructions and an install video for you to check out also. Next, you need to convert the 4-way to a 7-way so that you can install the brake...
view full answer... - How to Wire Dexter Predator Brake Controller on a 2013 Town and Country With a Tow PackageIn my research, the 2013 Chrysler Town and Country with a tow package does come with a wiring harness and should have a 7-way. To install the Dexter Predator # 58-8, you will need to run the wires from the brake controller to the 7-way connector on your vehicle. You are also going to need Draw-Tite # 5506 which gives you the extra length you will need to hook up your brake controller to your 7-way connector. I have attached a FAQ regarding trailer brake controller installation information,...
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- Brake Controller Recommendation and Installation on a 2003 GMC Sierra with or without Factory 7-WayI did a little research and found that the Dexter Predator, # 58-8, is for 2 to 4 brakes. So if each wheel on your two axle trailer has a brake assembly, or just two of them, this brake controller will work. Brake controllers are not vehicle or trailer specific, so you will be able to use the best one for your application. I recommend going with a proportional controller because they offer the best and safest braking, and will reduce wear on both the trailer and tow vehicle brakes. I have...
view full answer... - Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2005 Cadillac SRX or 2007 Ford Edge Behind a Motor HomeIn order to determine if your vehicles can be flat towed and if there are any special requirements (such as a specific transmission or engine) you will want to consult your vehicle owner's manuals. To flat tow either vehicle you will need 5 main components: base plates, tow bar, safety cables, lighting, and a supplemental braking system. Base plates for the Cadillac SRX: # 3125-3. Base plates for the Ford Edge: # 4408-1. Compatible tow bar for either vehicle: Falcon # RM-520. Safety...
view full answer... - Hazard Lights Locking Up Trailer Brakes and Activating Electric Brake Controller On RVIf the red wire from your brake controller is tapped into a wire that has voltage when the hazard lights are activated then this situation will occur. You will need to attach the red wire from the brake controller to a brake signal wire, under the dash at the brake pedal switch, that only has power when the brake pedal is pressed on your RV, so that when the hazards are on your trailer brakes do not lock up.
view full answer... - Dexter Predator Brake Controller 58-8 Installation in 2005 Ford F150If your 2005 Ford F-150 has only 4 wires at the bumper (or only a 4-pole connector) and you need to install a 7-way vehicle-side connector, you could use the Hopkins # 37185. If you already have the 7-way connector on your truck, you will need to make the additional wire connections for the brake controller. (The 4 wires you have carry the brake light, running light and turn light signals for your trailer, plus a ground: white = ground, brown = running/brake lights, green = right turn signal...
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- Display of Dexter 58-8 DX 2 Predator Brake Controller Lights Up Without Trailer ConnectedAccording to Dexter Axle, it's perfectly normal for the display to light up and display .0 when a trailer isn't connected. This will happen regardless of if the vehicle is running, as the controller has a constant 12V connection to the vehicle battery.
view full answer... - Brake Wire for Installation of Dexter Predator Trailer Brake Controller in 2006 Dodge Ram 2500When installing the Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller # 58-8 with Wiring Adapter # 3020-S in your 2006 Dodge Ram 2500, the blue wire from the brake controller will connect to the blue wire from the harness. I have added links to help articles on brake controllers and brake controller installation for you to check out as well.
view full answer... - Troubleshooting 12V Power & Brake Output Circuits on 7-Way on 2008 Saab 9-7XIt sounds like you have a 7-way trailer socket on your 2008 Saab 9-7X that has no signals on the 12V charging circuit nor on the brake controller output circuit. If you refer to the linked photo you'll see the usual pin/function assignments typically found on an RV-style 7-way. Often the 12V trailer power circuit is carried on the pin at the 1-o-clock position and the brake controller output is carried on the pin at the 5-o-clock position. The most common causes for an issue like this...
view full answer...
- Brake Controller Does Not Have Full Power When UsedFirst, I would go to the 7-way connector and test to make sure you have power. You will want to use a circuit tester, part # PTW2993 to test the wires. Start by testing the Black wire for power, then test the blue wire for brake controller output. To test the blue wire you will need to have a friend help you. With the vehicle in power accessory mode, in park, and parking brake engaged, have them activate the brakes. Next I would check to make sure the Red Stoplight wire is connected and...
view full answer... - Installing Dexter Predator DX2 Brake Controller on 2008 GMC EnvoyAs long as your 2008 GMC Envoy is equipped with the factory 7-Way connector there will be blunt cut wires located inside the vehicle on the driver's side under the instrument panel to which your Dexter Predator DX2 Brake Controller # 58-8 can be directly wired. Based on my research there should be a red/black wire that connects to the black (12V power) wire on the controller, a white wire that connects to the white (ground) wire on the controller, a light blue/white wire that gets connected...
view full answer... - Parts Needed To Install a Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller On a 2022 Chevrolet TahoeThe Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller # 58-8 will connect to a 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe with the Tekonsha Custom Wiring Adapter # 3016-S as long as you have the factory tow package with 7-way. You will need to wire the adapter to the controller since Dexter does not put a connector on its controller. If your Tahoe does not have the factory tow package you will need the Custom Multi-Tow 7-Way and 4-Way Trailer Connectors # 30955 to plug into the wiring on your Tahoe and the controller...
view full answer... - Can the Predator DX2 Brake Controller Work on a Trailer with 6 Brake AssembliesI have a solution for you, but the Dexter Axle Predator Electric Brake Controller # 58-8 that you referenced can only be used on up to 4 brake assemblies. Instead you would want the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885. This controller can be used on up to 8 brake assemblies and would work great for you. This is our best selling controller because of how easy it is to set up and how well it works.
view full answer...
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