Installing Brake Controller & 7-Way Socket on 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 with Factory 4-Pole

Question:

I have a 2008 dodge ram 1500 st 3.7l. It has the tow package but no connector for brake controller. What is the plug in the picture? Has factory 4 pole plug in rear. Want to set truck up for 7 blade plug in and install brake controller

asked by: Mitch

Helpful Expert Reply:

Thank you for providing a photo of the wiring in your 2008 Dodge Ram 1500. The green connector shown near the top of the photo resembles a brake controller connection port, but since you indicated the vehicle does not have one, then this evidently is for another purpose. If you like you can test the connector with a circuit tester like # PTW2993. If the connector has 4 pins, one of them should show 12V at all times; while another should show voltage only when you press the brake pedal. The other two pins should carry no signal as they would be for ground and the controller output circuit.

Installation of a brake controller in your truck will require the controller itself and an install kit, part # ETBC7. The kit includes the 7-way socket and mounting bracket and all wiring, circuit breakers and connectors needed to complete installation of a brake controller such as a reliable and popular Prodigy P2, part # 90885. I recommend this controller for its versatility (it works with both electric and electric-over-hydraulic brakes) and for its easy set up. As long as your factory 4-pole works then these two items are all you will need.

I have linked for you two helpful articles concerning brake controller installation as well as a video for the ETBC7 kit and P2 brake controller.

expert reply by: Adam R