Recommended Brake Controller For A 2018 Ram 1500

Question:

Hello, I have a 2018 Ram 1500 with factory installed 7 pin trailer wiring outlet. I also have a 2017 Coachmen Clipper 17FQ travel trailer. The truck does not have the OEM trailer brake controller therefore I need to install a brake controller. Wondering if installing an OEM brake controller is best or is aftermarket the way to go. Also would like to know if the wiring connection from the truck to the trailer are standard and will simply match up? Thank you in advance for taking the time to respond to my questions.

asked by: Dan D

Expert Reply:

Factory brake controllers seem to unfortunately be very temperamental and usually quite a bit more expensive that an aftermarket brake controller so I have to recommend going with an aftermarket option. Luckily there is a brake controller port so integration of the brake controller's wiring into your 2018 Ram 1500 will be easy peasy.

I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller # RED24FR along with the Redarc Plug-and-Play Wiring Harness for Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers # 331-TPH-020. The main module and all wiring will easily tuck up under the dash and the control knob can also be mounted in the dash for a clean factory look.

I've attached a short installation video below where John will walk you through the process.

expert reply by: Kevin C

Dan D.

3/1/2024

Hi Kevin, Thank you for the detailed recommendation. I understand that my tow vehicle has a graphic display for when the brake control is in use. Is this going to be plug and play or will it need to be programmed with a tuner? Thanks, Dan D.

Kevin C.

3/5/2024

@DanD For your specific setup the Redarc # RED24FR along with the # 331-TPH-020 would be a plug-and-play setup. The control module for this brake controller will take a second to configure its orientation, but all you'll need to do is simply drive around with or without a trailer connected. When I installed this in my Silverado I shot the video and it calibrated itself just pulling around the side of our building so I had to disconnect it and reset it to get this process on camera so others could see it. The light should blink at you and then turn solid blue when it's complete.

Helpful Links

tv-install-redarc-brake-controller-2016-chevrolet-silverado-1500-red24fr.aspx