Recommended Trailer Brake Controller To Replace Factory Controller On 2018 Ram 2500

Question:

I have a 2018 Ram 2500 pulling a 2016 Montana 5th whl. Trailer gross weight at 16k lbs. My problem is the factory brake controller seems weak. I did find that there is a setting in the Uconnect for light or heavy trailers and factory setting is for light trailers so switched it to heavy. However I have the controller set to max at level 10 and I still barely feel the trailer braking. I am thinking the problem is the controller itself and was thinking of replacing it with an aftermarket unit. is there a way to test the output of the controller and what controller would you recommend to replace the factory unit with. Thanks in advance for your time.

asked by: Mark

Expert Reply:

There is not a really good way to test the brake output of the factory trailer brake controller on your 2018 Ram 2500. This is due to the way the voltage pulses with the factory ITBM (integrated trailer brake module) sends pulses instead of a steady flow of electricity.

First it would be a good idea to check that your brakes are properly adjusted so I have included a link to a helpful article that goes over adjusting trailer brakes. Basically you want to adjust the until you can feel slight drag.

To replace your factory trailer brake controller with a traditional style trailer brake controller you will need to have your local Ram dealer unhook the ITBM and reprogram the truck. Another option would be the Curt Echo Wireless # C51180 which will plug directly into your 7-way connector without needing to go to the dealership.

Once that is complete I recommend installing the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195 which is an extremely reliable trailer brake controller and is our most popular unit due to this. It also has great features like an easy to read LCD screen, and built in diagnostics that are easy to read and understand.

You will also need the Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - Ram # 3024-P to connect the P3 # 90195 to the factory port underneath your dash.

I included videos for both of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.