Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional

Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional
part number: 58-8

This proportional brake controller keeps it simple with intuitive controls that are easy to use. Includes a large digital LED display, fingertip gain control, a slide-bar manual override, and built-in safety features.

Features:

• Brake controller activates your trailer brakes in proportion to your vehicle's braking action
  • Automatically adjusts trailer's braking based on deceleration of tow vehicle
• Large digital LED display shows your controller settings and monitors voltage output
• Simple, intuitive controls keep your settings in easy reach
  • Adjustable gain setting determines the amount of braking output sent to the trailer's brakes
  • Built-in, slide-bar manual override activates trailer brakes to control sway in emergency situations
  • Deceleration sensor lever lets you adjust initial braking power and aggressiveness for smooth, safe braking
• Built-in safeguards protect your vehicle and trailer
  • Current limiter protects vehicle from shorts in the trailer wiring
  • Hazard flasher immunity prevents pulsing of the brakes when flashers are activated
• Quick and easy mounting with included bracket and hardware
  • 90 To -35 degree mounting range - must be horizontally level
  • Pigtail harness hardwires into your vehicle
• Made in the USA

Specs:

• Application: trailers with up to 2 axles (4 brake assemblies)
  • Compatible with electric brakes only
• Dimensions: 6-1/2" long x 3" wide x 1-5/8" tall
• Mounting angle: -35 degrees to 90 degrees vertically
• 7-Year limited warranty

Proportional Braking

The Dexter Predator DX2 brake controller comes equipped with proportional braking to give you the best towing experience. Proportional braking means that your trailer brakes mimic your tow vehicle's brakes. If you slam on the brakes in your vehicle, your trailer brakes will activate with the same intensity; if you brake lightly, your trailer brakes lightly too. The trailer's braking is in proportion to your vehicle's braking. This saves wear and tear on the tires and the brakes on both your vehicle and trailer.

The Predator DX2 uses an internal 3-axis accelerometer to sense how your vehicle is braking so it can send the right amount of braking power to your trailer. It measures the inertia of your tow vehicle and activates the trailer's brakes to slow at the same rate. The result is uniform braking across your towing setup. No push-pull action - just smooth, proportional braking every time.

Large Digital LED Display

The Dexter Predator DX2 features a large LED display that's easy to see so you can check on your current braking output setting with a glance. This display is designed to keep it simple and not overload you with information. The display will also show you the voltage to confirm that the trailer brakes are receiving power.

Braking Output

During the initial setup process, use the thumbwheel on the front of the brake controller to adjust the braking output. The output control lets you set the maximum amount of power that will be applied to your trailer's brakes. Typically, the output is only readjusted when you experience changing road conditions or if the weight of your trailer changes. The power output control on this brake controller lets you set the maximum amount of power that will be applied to your trailer's brakes. Typically, the power output is only readjusted if you switch from a heavy, loaded trailer to a much lighter, empty trailer - or vice versa.

During the initial setup process, you can use the thumbwheel to adjust the power output. To get more power to your brakes, increase the power level. To decrease the power output, lower the power level.

Sensitivity Adjustment with Deceleration Sensor Lever

Once you have the overall power set, you can fine-tune the power output by adjusting the sensitivity of the internal sensor. This controls the aggressiveness of your trailer's braking, meaning how quickly the brakes reach the maximum braking level. You can adjust this when you're towing heavy loads and you need more umph to bring your trailer to a stop. Your tow vehicle doesn't need that much power to brake in time, but your heavy trailer does. Boost gets the braking power to your trailer brakes faster and with more intensity so that it doesn't push your tow vehicle forward. To increase the sensitivity for towing heavier loads, move the lever away from you. For a lighter load, move the lever toward you.

Slide-Bar Manual Override

The Dexter Predator DX2 comes with a built-in manual override slide-bar in easy reach, great for stopping sway or controlling your trailer's momentum in emergencies. To engage the manual override, just push the slide-bar to the left. This will activate the trailer's brakes and brake lights without you having to apply the brakes on your tow vehicle, perfect for limiting trailer movement while you're cruising.

You can also engage the manual override to help you move a sliding 5th-wheel hitch closer to your truck's tailgate for tight maneuvering during slow speed turns. Just apply the manual override to hold the trailer in place while slowly moving the tow vehicle forward.

Quick, Simple Installation

Because the controller operates with an internal inertia sensor, it must be mounted between -35 degrees and 90 degrees vertically. The Predator DX2 also needs to be horizontally level and parallel with the direction of travel to function properly. During initial installation, the deceleration sensor lever must be positioned straight up and down. After mounting the Predator DX2 using the included bracket, hardwire the controller directly into your vehicle.

Installation Accessories

See etrailer.com's exclusive 7- and 4-way brake-control installation kit (ETBC7 - sold separately) if you don't already have a 7-way plug at the back of your vehicle

Note: One of the following will be required to ensure proper installation:

• 20-Amp circuit breaker (9506P - sold separately) for 2- to 4-brake applications
• 30-Amp circuit breaker (38630 - sold separately) for 6- to 8-brake applications

058-008-00 Dexter Predator DX2 Electric Brake Controller with Inertia Sensor - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional

Replaces 58-8

Customer Satisfaction Score:

93% were satisfied with this product

7% of customers were not satisfied

• Wrong item was ordered
• Defective
• Too difficult to install

Learn More

Customer Reviews

Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional - 58-8

Average Customer Rating:  4.8 out of 5 stars   (41 Customer Reviews)

Order: RelevanceNewestRating - High to LowRating - Low to High This proportional brake controller keeps it simple with intuitive controls that are easy to use. Includes a large digital LED display, fingertip gain control, a slide-bar manual override, and built-in safety features.

by: Rancher01/07/2023

Finally a brake controller that does what I set it to, not what it’s little computer brain, designed by someone who has never pulled a trailer thinks it needs to do.1496113

by: Michael 09/22/2022

I installed this controller in my 1982 Chevy K20 pickup.
It works perfectly! Etrailer exceeded my expectations with their level of customer service from the time the order was placed to the products arrival at my home. Truly 5-star service!
The video tutorials are straight forward and very helpful.
The universal installation kit literally had everything needed to complete the job.
Side note:
I would have liked to see the (2) 10ga wires in the insulation to be black and blue, not black and white, no biggie, black on black and white on blue.
Thanks again!1419932

by: Richard12/28/2022

was difficult to find a good mounting location away from leg room1490248

by: Bob J.09/07/2016

I am very satisfied with the Dexter Axle Predator Electric Brake controller. I purchased the Dexter brake controller to be compatible with Dexter car trailer axles on a 16 foot car hauler. The braking unit is very useful when towing in very steep and winding mountain terrain. I feel that the braking is a necessary safety item when towing in a hilly or mountainous environment and the Dexter Predator brake controller provides the great control and driver peace of mind knowing that a heavy load can be managed. The unit installs very easily with the proper adapter.292121

by: Aaron 02/06/2024

Delivered on time and the right parts 1721804

by: Fred09/09/2017

My brake controller was a great match for my needs. I have a 4 brake trailer which gets the proper control from my Dexter unit. From empty weight to heavy load the adjustment is just a slight roll of the knob. I like the digital read out so I can glance down to check system operations. It does great f or me and fit right in to the factory wire set up in my truck430590

by: roula m07/25/2017

The parts I ordered were shipped and now are installed on a enclosed trailer that carries a variety of motorcycles. The roads are mountainous and treacherous here so I have to be able to 100% depend on my trailer brakes. The brakes have been flawless, giving me total confidence. Perfect parts, great price. Customer service was a 10. Thanks for all your help !410276

by: Mark06/18/2020

Item was shipped promptly and was easy to install works great on my 20,000 pound felling goosneck trailer with 4 electric over hydraulic disc brakes.817419

by: Gary M.06/01/2015

Just finish installing the brake controller so I have not seen it in operation. Everything that was needed for installation was contained in the package. Due to limited access due to the chosen mounting location getting two of the side screws started took some effort.199608

by: Terry03/06/2017

This is a great product, installation was easy, instructions accurate and product works as advertised. I would do this all over again if needed.349055

by: Anthony12/29/2018

A great product. Had it installed by my Benz dealership. No adjustments needed.....factory settings were all I needed to tow my boat and trailer.593808

by: Dennis 06/06/2023

Everything as described. 1594960

by: WalkerEOD11/03/2017

Easy to install and adjust, seems to work well with my Pathfinder. The butt connectors that were included were not the correct size but i wouldn't have used them anyway. 448846

by: Chuck 08/03/2022

Products came quickly... what I was looking for.1345448

by: Stephen02/05/2022

Easy to set up and use. 1259532

by: Jim S12/17/2014

Great service from etrailer. I have never had a problem with any products I have bought.
Excellent company. 165785

by: Fred Charlton06/01/2015

good quality product, instructions are easy to follow.199343

by: Richard 09/12/2022

Easy install and reasonably priced ! 1404719

by: Tim 09/15/2022

FAst shipping 1409637

by: Roger08/02/2019

All my ordered parts arrived have not installed yet but so far perfect experience. 681243

by: Ken07/12/2020

PARTS SHOWED UP ON TIME . HAVE NOT YET INSTALLED836987

by: Gilberto05/14/2019

So far so good all products worked as a dvertised642694

by: Mark 01/26/2022

Everything was sent that I ordered. Thank you1252684

by: Richard01/27/2015

Quality product at a good price. 171365

by: Walter06/18/2019

These guys and gals are fast with their deliveries! 660308

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Ask the Experts about this Trailer Brake Controller
Do you have a question about this Trailer Brake Controller?

• How to Install a Brake Controller in a 1996 Dodge Ram
  
• If your 1996 Dodge Ram has the factory 7-way connector at the rear of the vehicle, then all of the wires for the brake controller have been run. You will just need a brake controller wiring adapter. I recommend using part # 3020-P and cutting off the black plug. This adapter plugs into the brake controller plug under the dash, to the left of the steering column taped to another harness near the emergency brake pedal. The four pigtail wires on the other end will be butt-connected to the
  view full answer...


• Where Do the 4 Wires of a Brake Controller Go for Installation in Vehicle
  
• The four wires and their functions are: White: Ground wire, connected to negative side of battery. Blue: Electric brake wire, ran to the brake output circuit of your 7-way with 10 gauge wire like # 10-1-1 sold by the foot. Black: 12v power wire, connected to the vehicle positive battery terminal with a 40amp circuit breaker, part # 9510. Red: Stoplight switch circuit. This will get run to the wire on your stoplight pedal assembly that sees voltage only when the brakes are applied.
  view full answer...


• Troubleshooting Brake Controller that Won't Work with Brake Pedal
  
• If a brake controller is detecting a trailer connected when there isn't one connected that indicates that there is a load somewhere on the brake output circuit that is confusing the controller. Typically this is corrosion on the 7-way and cleaning the pins with fine grit sandpaper will do the trick. If a controller will work with the override but not with the brake pedal that indicates a problem with the red (stoplight circuit) wire of the controller. What you will need to do is check
  view full answer...


• Location of Brake Controller Connector on 2012 Ram Truck
  
• The connector you are looking for will be located taped to another larger wiring harness just to the right and above the emergency brake pedal, as shown in the photo I have edited for you. You can confirm that this is the correct connector by testing it with a circuit tester like part # PTW2993. One pin should show a constant 12-volt power supply, another should show voltage only when the brake pedal is pressed. Unfortunately, my contact at Tekonsha was not able to shed any light
  view full answer...


• Troubleshooting Electric Brakes with Dexter DX2 Controller
  
• The manual override lever does not move when you hit your brake pedal but the digital display will light up and give you a reading. The slide is only for the manual emergency braking or to apply additional braking pressure to your trailer as desired and should not move when you hit your brake pedal at all. The description you gave is that your manual override is sticking and not releasing the braking pressure some of the time which would definitely lead to burning up your brake shoes
  view full answer...


• How to Wire Dexter DX2 Brake Controller on 2013 Chevrolet Silverado
  
• The red wire from your Dexter DX2 brake controller # 58-8 needs to be wired to the cold side of the stop light switch, which on your 2013 Chevy Silverado corresponds to a light blue wire with a white stripe. This wire should ONLY be hot when the brake pedal is applied. The rest of the wires actually match up with the same color wires on your truck as follows: Dark blue on brake controller - To dark blue on vehicle White on brake controller - To white on vehicle Black on brake controller
  view full answer...


• Troubleshooting Low Power Output for Predator DX2 Brake Controller
  
• It sounds like you've done a good amount of troubleshooting already which gives us a good foundation to work off of. Since your Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller # 58-8 isn't supplying more than 3.2 for power this tells me that 1 of 2 things is going on; either there isn't enough power getting to the controller and is limiting it, or something is internally wrong with the controller. Start off by checking the wires connected to the controller first. The white should have
  view full answer...


• Dexter Predator Brake Controller 58-8 Installation in 2005 Ford F150
  
• If your 2005 Ford F-150 has only 4 wires at the bumper (or only a 4-pole connector) and you need to install a 7-way vehicle-side connector, you could use the Hopkins # 37185. If you already have the 7-way connector on your truck, you will need to make the additional wire connections for the brake controller. (The 4 wires you have carry the brake light, running light and turn light signals for your trailer, plus a ground: white = ground, brown = running/brake lights, green = right turn signal
  view full answer...


• Brake Wire for Installation of Dexter Predator Trailer Brake Controller in 2006 Dodge Ram 2500
  
• When installing the Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller # 58-8 with Wiring Adapter # 3020-S in your 2006 Dodge Ram 2500, the blue wire from the brake controller will connect to the blue wire from the harness. I have added links to help articles on brake controllers and brake controller installation for you to check out as well.
  view full answer...


• Parts Needed to Install Dexter Predator Trailer Brake Controller 58-8 in 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  
• Since you already have a 4-pole harness on your 1999 Toyota 4Runner all you need to install the Dexter Predator Trailer Brake Controller # 58-8 is our all-inclusive installation kit # ETBC7. This kit includes a combo 4-pole/7-way trailer socket, all connectors, wiring, circuit breakers, etc that are required for wiring in the controller and having a fully-functioning 4/7-way. An installation article and video for this kit are linked for your review.
  view full answer...


• Can the Predator DX2 Brake Controller Work on a Trailer with 6 Brake Assemblies
  
• I have a solution for you, but the Dexter Axle Predator Electric Brake Controller # 58-8 that you referenced can only be used on up to 4 brake assemblies. Instead you would want the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885. This controller can be used on up to 8 brake assemblies and would work great for you. This is our best selling controller because of how easy it is to set up and how well it works.
  view full answer...


• Parts Needed to Install a Trailer Brake Controller on a 1987 Dodge Ram 350 Full Size Van
  
• The 1987 Dodge full size vans do not have wiring under the dash to wire in a brake controller. You will need to hardwire in the controller using an installation kit. There are different kits depending on whether or not the vehicle has a trailer connector or not. If your van has a 4-Way trailer wiring harness, you will need to use the 4 and 7 way installation kit # ETBC7. It comes with the 7-Way, wiring, and accessories to wire in the brake controller. If you do not have any type of trailer
  view full answer...


• Can Dexter Predator Brake Controller Fit 2019 Ford Explorer
  
• Yes the Dexter Predator brake controller part # 58-8 that you referenced does fit your 2019 Ford Explorer by using the install harness part # 3035-S and you'd be set.
  view full answer...


• Install Video for Brake Controller in 2006 Ford F-150
  
• I found the video you are looking for and attached a link to it on this page. You'll want to look for the heading titled "FEATURED HELP INFORMATION" and under that "Miscellanious Media" and you'll see a link. It depends on what device you are using to view this page but most likely it's underneath the product links so you should scroll down.
  view full answer...


• 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Brake Controller Installation
  
• The Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional # 58-8 will have the red wire connect to the brown and white wire in your 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. I've attached a video of an installation of the Prodigy P3 # 90195 which will have that same red wire from the brake light switch. This installation uses heat shrink butt connectors # DW05745-5 along with wiring kit # 5506 to Factory 7-way.
  view full answer...


• Can Trailer Brakes be Added to Motorcycle Trailer Axle
  
• When adding brakes to a trailer the first thing you will need is a brake mounting flange on the axle. If you do not have a brake flange I recommend part # 4-35. This should be welded in place by a professional welder because it needs to be square and concentric. Beyond that step we have to first determine what hubs/spindles you have on your trailer so that we can first fit a hub/drum (if available) to it and then install assemblies as well. If you check out the help article
  view full answer...


• How to Wire a Dexter Axle Predator Brake Controller 58-8 on a 2001 GMC Sierra
  
• The light blue wire mentioned in the video of the # HM40975-11998 7 and 4-pole trailer connector being installed on a 2002 Silverado is for a camper shell brake light, and is not for use with an electric brake controller. The electric brake wire on your 2001 GMC Sierra is run from the port below the dash into the engine compartment, but it does not continue back to the rear wiring bundle. You will need to finish the connection by running a wire from the 7-Way in the rear of the truck
  view full answer...


• What is the Wire Gauge Used for the Dexter Predator Brake Controller for a 2008 Chevy Silverado
  
• No problem, I'm happy to help. I went out to the warehouse with our little wire gauge measuring tool to measure the wires on the Dexter Predator # 58-8. They all came up as 14 gauge (btween 12 and 14 but closer to 14). So a butt connector such as # DW05714 would work for the installation.
  view full answer...


• Troubleshooting Brake Controller with 1.5 on Display All of the Time
  
• Sometimes brake controllers need to be reset as they get a weird internal bug. Try unplugging yours for a minute or so and replugging in and see if that helps. Here's how to test the controller though: Testing the brake controller is fairly easy. Sever the blue brake output wire near the brake controller leaving enough room to reconnect it and then apply the manual slide. Using a circuit tester like the Tester, part # PTW2993, you should get output to the controller side of the wire
  view full answer...