Hard Wiring Brake Controller For 2008 Dodge Ram 1500

Question:

Hi, I just bought a 2008 dodge 1500 slt quad cab and the brake controller was mounted but didnt work. When I got under dash and looked I saw why, the plug on the factory plug cable was gone and the plug on the end of controller cable was gone also. So, I need a little help to hard wire this thing so it will work and not burn up my truck. The controller is a journey hd. Thanks

asked by: Gary S

Expert Reply:

You will need to hardwire the brake controller to your 2008 Dodge 1500. Because the wires have all been cut it would be best to run all new wires so you know it is done correctly. The four wires coming from the brake controller are White for ground. Black for 12V power, Dark Blue for your trailer brakes, and Red which is for the stoplight.

You will need to run the White wire to the negative battery post. The Black wire should be connected to the positive battery post with a 30 amp circuit breaker like part # 38630. The Blue wire will be run to the 7-way harness pin for your brakes.

The red wire will need to be connected to the cold side of the stoplight switch that is located at the top of your brake pedal under the dash. You will need a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 and connect the red wire to the side of the switch that shows power only when the brake pedal is pushed.

If you do not have a 7-way trailer connector on the back of your truck I recommend part # ETBC7. I have attached a drawing that shows how the wires need to be run for a brake controller and the # ETBC7.