Can the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller be Used for Brakes on 2011 Ram Pickup While Flat Towing

Question:

Yes, please put together a list. I already know I need the 52289-1 base plate and the 910021-00 quick disconnect, so add the braking options (like the InvisiBrake) along with any relays and brake / turn wiring kits I would need for each braking option. Keep in mind, that I will be installing this stuff myself, so the less complicated, the better. I can figure out the mechanical side (thanks Google & YouTube) it’s more contorting my 62 yr old bones into positions that simply don’t work for my body anymore. Thanks for all your help, it is appreciated.

asked by: Jerry P

Expert Reply:

You actually need to use a supplemental braking system to activate the brakes on your 2011 Dodge Ram pickup. Since vehicle brakes are hydraulic you won't be able to use an electric brake controller like the Prodigy P2 # 90885 to utilize the brakes on your vehicle. We do have the Brake Buddy Stealth # HM39530 which utilizes a specific electric brake controller but this whole unit stays installed on your vehicle. Since you have a 2011 and may be upgrading your vehicle in the near future I recommend using a braking system that is easily removable. If you were to go with the Stealth then you need the relay kit # RM-88400 as well.

For your application I recommend using the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR because it can easily be moved to another vehicle if need be and it is very easy to use. This unit does draw on power from the battery so if you don't have one that stays active when you vehicle is off you need the 12 Volt Outlet Kit # RM-9332. Also if you have a 1500 then you need the relay Kit # RM-88400 to ensure the lights on your pickup work properly with the Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267 while you're flat towing.

For a complete flat towing setup you will need a base plate kit, tow bar, safety cables, vehicle tow bar wiring, a supplemental braking system, and possibly a high-low adapter. If you do not have all of these components just let me know and I can make some additional recommendations for you.

expert reply by: Jon G

Jerry P.

6/18/2019

Jon G.

6/18/2019

From our conversations we already have a great list in the making! Since you will be using the Base Plate Kit # 52289-1 for your 2011 Ram 1500 I recommend using the Roadmaster BlackHawk 2 All Terrain # RM-422 and the Safety Cables # RM-653 because it has a non-binding feature to make connecting/disconnecting easier, it comes with the quick disconnect that you mentioned, and it is rated for up to 10K which gives you a big safety margin with the weight of your pickup. Along with the Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit # RM-15267 you need the Relay Kit # RM-88400 whether you are going with the SMI Delta Force Portable Supplemental Braking System # SM99242, the Brake Buddy Stealth # HM39530 (both of these options would be quicker), or the Roadmaster InvisiBrake # RM-8700 to ensure that your lights work correctly. Keep in mind the 12 Volt Outlet Kit # RM-9332 does need to be used with the Delta Force. In summary you need the following: Base Plate Kit # 52289-1 BlackHawk 2 All Terrain # RM-422 Safety Cables # RM-653 Wiring Kit # RM-15267 (use part # TR118821 if you go with the Stealth) Braking System # SM99242, # HM39530, or # RM-8700 Relay Kit # RM-88400 Possibly Outlet Kit # RM-9332 Also, a lot of flat towing setups might require the use of a high-low adapter to keep the tow bar level while towing a vehicle. I have linked a helpful article for you to reference to see if this applies to you. If it does then I have also linked our selection of adapters for you to filter through. Please be sure to check your copy of the owner's manual for any additional instructions regarding flat towing your Ram.