How to Bypass Factory Integrated Brake Controller on 2012 Dodge Ram 3500
Question:
Can the factory trailer brake be bypassed / disconnected to install the Hopkins insight flex mount trailer brake? I use a 6 hole trailer plug, and I can go to a 7 hole semi trailer plug if need be. Dodge is willing to install an after market trailer brake for me. The factory wiring is inadequate on the trailer plug. It does not have the 2 wire brake control nor a wire to charge battery on trailer.
asked by: James
Expert Reply:
You can bypass the factory brake controller on a 2012 Dodge Ram but there are a few things to do first.
To install an aftermarket brake controller on a 2012 Dodge Ram that has the factory integrated controller you will have to disconnect the ITBM (Integrated Trailer Brake Module). Doing so will turn on a warning lamp on the instrument cluster. In order to disconnect the ITBM and not get the warning lamp, your local Dodge dealer will have to reconfigure the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), of the truck. Once the TIPM has been reconfigured, and the ITBM has been unplugged, you can use a vehicle specific brake control harness such as part # HM53015, to install the aftermarket brake control.
To disconnect the ITBM, you or the dealer will need to contact the Business Center to remove the sales code (XHC). The TIPM will need to be reconfigured. Once the sales code has been disabled you can disconnect the ITBM electrical connector, under the dash, without getting the warning lamp. Basically the computer needs to be told that the truck does not have a brake controller so you can unplug it without getting that warning light.
Then you can install an aftermarket brake controller like Hopkins InSIGHT or Hopkins Agility Brake Controller # HM47294. These are reliable controllers that are easy to set up and use and also are compatible with electric and electric over hydraulic braking systems. You will need wiring harness # HM53015. This adapter plugs into the 4-pin connector on your vehicles built-in brake control wiring harness. The harness is located underneath the dash.
For install details, FAQs and some product demonstration videos, click the provided links.
Products Referenced in This Question
Hopkins Plug-In Simple Brake-Control Wiring Adapter - Dodge
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Wiring Adapter
- Plugs into Brake Controller
- Vehicle Specific
- Hopkins
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