Is Factory Trailer Brake Controller on 2015 Ram 2500 Compatible with Electric Over Hydraulic Brakes

Question:

My truck has the factory dash brake controller. I am building a boat trailer and would like to use electric over hydraulic brakes? Will my factory controller work to control these brakes or must I use a specific brand when building the trailer? Thanks

asked by: Trevor

Expert Reply:

I took a look at the online owner's manual for your 2015 Ram 2500. It does state that the Integrated Trailer Brake Module (ITBM) installed on the vehicle has been designed and verified with electric trailer brakes and new electric over hydraulic systems. Some previous electric over hydraulic systems may not be compatible.

If you will be using a new electric over hydraulic actuator/system on your boat trailer, then the integrated controller on your RAM should be sufficient. Otherwise you may need to bypass the factory controller and install an aftermarket unit like the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195 along with the Custom Plug-In Wiring Harness # 3024-P. This is a proportional controller that is confirmed to work with electric over hydraulic trailer brakes. It is well known for its reliability and ease of installation.

If you decide to do this, keep in mind that you will likely need to visit your local Ram dealer to have the power module reconfigured in your vehicle so it can properly recognize the new trailer brake controller.

expert reply by: Chris R