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IDoMyOwnStunts's avatar
IDoMyOwnStunts
Explorer
Mar 06, 2016

Adding trailer brake controller

So I think I've found a Ram 3500 that will work for me (6.4L with 4000 lbs payload!), but it doesn't come with the factory trailer brake controller. I'd like some opinions. Should I make the trailer brake controller part of the deal or should I just get my own? If I get my own, aftermarket (brand?) or factory? I assume I'll have to have the dealer program it anyway.

I really don't want to get into brand wars or a gas vs diesel debate. I'd just like opinions on brake controllers.

I will take opinions on how to convince DW, though. She doesn't think we need to upgrade, but she only drives with the horse trailer hooked up.

Thanks!
Tow Vehicles

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  • otrfun's avatar
    otrfun
    Explorer II
    Mar 06, 2016
    donn0128 wrote:
    Good point. It possibly is also missing the wiring, trailering mirrors, and aux coolers needed for proper towing. The OP really needs to dig further into this truck, not just the brake controller.
    All new Ram 2500/3500's, including the base Tradesman model, include a Cat V hitch, wiring, and drivetrain improvements (I.e., tranny cooler) necessary to tow their rated tow capacity.

    An integrated brake controller is optional on both the Tradesman Ram 2500 & 3500 (I believe it's standard on higher trim levels). Tow mirrors and the anti-slip rear end are optional on the Ram 2500, but standard on the Ram 3500.
  • IDoMyOwnStunts's avatar
    IDoMyOwnStunts
    Explorer
    Mar 06, 2016
    donn0128 wrote:
    Good point. It possibly is also missing the wiring, trailering mirrors, and aux coolers needed for proper towing. The OP really needs to dig further into this truck, not just the brake controller.


    No, it has all that. I would NOT buy a truck without that, especially the cooling. It's just missing the brake controller.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Mar 06, 2016
    Good point. It possibly is also missing the wiring, trailering mirrors, and aux coolers needed for proper towing. The OP really needs to dig further into this truck, not just the brake controller.
  • otrfun's avatar
    otrfun
    Explorer II
    Mar 06, 2016
    You might want to visit cumminsforum.com and search some Ram 2500/3500 integrated brake controller (IBC) threads. There are a number of complaints/comments about it producing insufficient voltage/current to effectively brake. Some folks are even purchasing aftermarket brake controllers to replace their Ram OEM IBC. I just purchased a new Ram 3500 which came from the factory with the IBC. Got my fingers crossed I don't have this issue.
  • Mttlh4's avatar
    Mttlh4
    Explorer
    Mar 06, 2016
    I could be wrong about this, but it was my impression that the integrated brake controller is not a dealer installed option. Though I'm curious why the dealer would have a heavy duty truck without that option
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Mar 06, 2016
    There is no programing for aftermaeket brake controllers. They are simple plug and play. Intigrayed is nice, but for 1/3 the price you can get a prodigy that works just as good. Your money, your choice.
  • spud1957's avatar
    spud1957
    Explorer
    Mar 06, 2016
    Get the Ram integrated controller and make it part of the deal. Seamless operation compared to after market units.

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