Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional
(41 reviews)
Price: $162.41
Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional
Item # 58-8
Retail:$223.10
Our Price: $162.41
You Save: $60.69
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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
- Product did not meet expectations
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
- 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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view full answer... - Install Video for Brake Controller in 2006 Ford F-150I found the video you are looking for and attached a link to it on this page. You'll want to look for the heading titled "FEATURED HELP INFORMATION" and under that "Miscellanious Media" and you'll see a link. It depends on what device you are using to view this page but most likely it's underneath the product links so you should scroll down.
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view full answer... - Can a Trailer with Electric Brakes be Converted to Surge Hydraulic BrakesYou can convert your trailer from electric brakes to hydraulic surge brakes, but it will require new brake assemblies, a new coupler and brake lines. To see all that is needed check out the FAQ article I attached to the right.
view full answer... - Should Brake Controller Draw Power All The Time You won't have any problem with power going to the brake controller all the time. This lets the brake controller keep all of its settings and not lose them every time the vehicle is turned off. Brake controllers are designed to enter a sleep mode after a period of time when there is no activity. An idle controller draws very little current and will not drain the vehicle battery.
view full answer... - 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... - Mounting Bracket for a Dexter Predator DX2 Brake ControllerYou should be able to use bracket # 2178. I have included a picture showing the measurements for you. I was able to read the instructions for the controller from the Dexter site but I can send you a copy in a separate email.
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view full answer... - 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Brake Controller InstallationThe Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional # 58-8 will have the red wire connect to the brown and white wire in your 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. I've attached a video of an installation of the Prodigy P3 # 90195 which will have that same red wire from the brake light switch. This installation uses heat shrink butt connectors # DW05745-5 along with wiring kit # 5506 to Factory 7-way.
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view full answer... - How to Install a Trailer Brake Controller on a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 with Factory 4-WayOn a 1996 Dodge Ram that came with a factory 4-Way trailer connector there is a factory harness you can plug into to install a brake controller. The harness is located underneath the dash, to the left of the steering column, taped to another harness near the emergency brake pedal. I have included a link to a video that should help. For the Dexter brake controller, # 58-8 you referenced, you would need wiring harness # 3020-P. To wire in your 7-Way that you have you will need to hardwire...
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.
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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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- 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 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.
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