Problems with Electric Over Hydraulic Disc Brakes on a 2011 Ram 3500  

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Expert Reply:

I researched the owner's manual for your 2011 Ram 3500 and there is no description of an SE code for the integrated brake controller. They mention 3 codes: SC for short to ground, Sb for short to battery and CF for controller fault.

Some of the Ram Integrated Trailer Brake Modules (ITBM) are not designed to be used with electric over hydraulic (EOH) trailer brake systems, but only work on electric trailer brakes. This may be the case with your truck if you have not ever tried to pull an EOH trailer before. I recommend calling the dealer with your VIN number to get the details on your ITBM's compatibility with EOH trailer brakes.

If your integrated brake controller is not compatible with EOH trailer brakes, then the best option is to bypass it with an aftermarket unit such as the Tekonsha Prodigy P3, # 90195. I've attached a link to an article that gives more detail on this option.

If you know that your ITBM has been designed and verified for EOH trailer braking the systems, then the issue may be the trailer. Our installers have found that the RAM integrated controller does not work with some older EOH brake systems. The solution is to upgrade the EOH actuator in order for the trailer to be compatible. I recommend the HydraStar part # HBA16 which is the favorite of our installers. From our experience, it is the fastest reacting and most reliable. You would also need to get the adapter, # HBA-CAM.

expert reply by: Amy W

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