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Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional
Tekonsha Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers - Pigtail - Dodge and RAM

Part Numbers: 58-8,3021-S

Retail:$249.94
Our Price: $181.45
You Save: $68.49
Trailer Brake Controller
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58-8 - Up to 2 Axles Dexter Trailer Brake Controller
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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

What is 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

Dexter Predator DX2 Power Gain Wheel

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

Dexter Predator DX2 Deceleration Sensor Level

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

Dexter Predator DX2 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



Tekonsha Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers - Pigtail - Dodge and RAM
part number: 3021-S

Streamline the installation of your trailer brake controller with this custom adapter. Simply connect the wires of the harness to your brake controller and then plug the other end into the built-in port beneath your vehicle's dash.

Features:

  • Pigtail wiring adapter eases installation of your electric trailer brake controller
  • Connector end plugs into the built-in port beneath the dash of your vehicle
  • Wire end connects to the wires on your brake controller with butt connectors (sold separately)
    • Compatible with time-delayed and proportional brake controllers from TrailerMate, Draw-Tite, and Tekonsha
  • Limited 1-year warranty


Installation of Tekonsha Brake Controller Adapter

To install your electric brake controller, you need to connect the wiring of the controller to your vehicle. Certain auto manufacturers offer pre-wired options, typically known as tow packages, wherein wiring is run for you from the dash to the trailer connector on the back of your vehicle. When this is done, a port is installed at your dash so that you can easily plug in a brake controller.


This adapter plugs into the 4-pin connector on your vehicle's built-in brake control wiring harness. The harness is located underneath the dash, to the left of the steering column, taped to another harness near the emergency brake pedal.


To hook this adapter up to your trailer brake controller, just connect the 4 wires of the harness - ground, power, brake switch, and brake power - to the corresponding wires on the brake controller. If your brake controller came with a plug built into its wiring harness, you will have to cut off the plug and connect to the wires themselves.



3021-S Tekonsha Brake Control Pigtail Wiring Adapter - Single Plug - Dodge and RAM

Replaces Tow Ready 20273

California residents: click here




Customer Satisfaction Score:


Customer Reviews

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

Tekonsha Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers - Pigtail - Dodge and RAM - 3021-S

Average Customer Rating:  4.9 out of 5 stars   (62 Customer Reviews)

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. Streamline the installation of your trailer brake controller with this custom adapter. Simply connect the wires of the harness to your brake controller and then plug the other end into the built-in port beneath your vehicle's dash.

by: Steven05/19/2023
2012 Ram 1500

The staff at etrailer.com are very helpful....they don't finish with you until they've answered all your questions and have provided the proper equipment to do the job. Rush shipping got the brake controller here next day, just in time for my long trip hauling a trailer.



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.



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!



by: Richard12/28/2022

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



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.



by: Aaron 02/06/2024

Delivered on time and the right parts



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 truck



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 !



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.



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.



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.



by: Aaron S.09/21/2012
2012 Dodge Ram Pickup

Super easy plug-n-play on my 2012 Ram 1500 with factory-installed towing package. This plugs right in beneath the steering column, then you just connect it to your choice of brake controller. Couldn't be easier.

etrailer has the BEST customer service on the web too!



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.



by: Richard12/28/2022

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



by: Greg Z08/21/2016

One year after installation, my Prodigy P2 still works flawlessly. It was easy to install after reviewing several of the resources on etrailer. I am very satisfied with the purchase. i have been considering purchasing another harness adapter so i can move the unit back and forth from my pickup to my RV.



by: Kyle05/05/2014

Perfect fit. Looks to be of high quality. Would recommend.



by: Dennis 06/06/2023

Everything as described.



by: Eric05/05/2014
2014 Jeep Cherokee

Quick/Easy Brake control installation using this connector. I actually swapped the black and blue wires to use it on my 2014 Cherokee, and it works great. Excellent product, super fast delivery, and well worth the price to 'do it right'.



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.



by: Jeff Mc06/18/2014

Item worked good. Wired up correctly and plugged into the factory harness. No guess work. Blue wire to blue, red to red, white to white, and black to black.



by: Transporter12/22/2012

This is excellent. It plugged right into the port on my truck and thankfully i have the factory tow package. It made installation of my brake control very simple. Highly recommend it



by: Stephen 10/04/2021

Great piece worked perfectly

Stephen

10/5/2022

Flawlessly



by: Chuck 08/03/2022

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



by: Stephen02/05/2022

Easy to set up and use.



by: Jim S12/17/2014

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


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


  • 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...

  • Trailer Brake Controller Recommendation for a 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500
  • If you are concerned there is no where to mount a brake controller (something that comes up a lot since truck interiors are more and more car-like) then I have the perfect solution for you. You can use the Curt Echo Wireless # C51180 that uses a mobile device so it requires no wiring or mounting in your vehicle. If you determine you want to use a more traditional style controller like the Spectrum # C51170 for a physical button, you will need to cut off the end that plugs into the controller
    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...

  • 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...

  • 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...

  • 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...

  • Brake Controller for 1999 Chevy Tahoe Towing a 2006 Fleetwood Bayside Camper with Electric Brakes
  • Since brake controllers are not vehicle-specific, you can use any of our brake controllers with your 1999 Chevy Tahoe and camper. The Dexter Axle Predator Electric Brake Controller, part # 58-8, is a great choice. It is inertia-activated, meaning you have a lot of mounting options for inside your Tahoe, has an LED display showing voltage output, and works with 1 or 2 axles. If you don't already have a 4-way connector on the back of your vehicle, you will need the custom-fit Vehicle Wiring
    view full answer...

  • Recommended Trailer Brake Controller for 2012 Chevy Silverado
  • For your 2012 Chevy Silverado, I highly recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller # 90885. This is an excellent proportional controller that will activate the brakes on your boat trailer at the same time and with the same intensity that you apply to them in your truck. It features an easy-to-read digital display, 3 boost settings, and continuous diagnostics that will alert you to any potential issues. This unit is well known for its reliability and ease of use. If your
    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...

  • Troubleshooting Predator DX2 Brake Controller that Only Works with Override Lever
  • The controller shouldn't have been showing voltage without a trailer connected. Typically this is caused by corrosion on the 7-way which is putting a slight draw on the circuit and causing the controller to think a trailer is connected. If the controller isn't applying the brakes with the brake pedal typically that's due to an issue with the red wire of the controller though. This wire needs to see 12 volts to know you are applying the brakes so that it can then start activating the
    view full answer...

  • Recommended Trailer Brake Controller For a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 With Factory 7-Way
  • I recommend installing the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller # RED52VR on your 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. This controller is proportional and takes up much less room than the Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller # 58-8 you found. This will make is easier to reach and give you a much cleaner look with the brake controller. I have linked an installation video below for the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195 that will accurately walk you through all
    view full answer...

  • Should Brake Controller Draw Power All The Time
  • You won't have any problem with power going to the brake controller all the time. This lets the brake controller keep all of its settings and not lose them every time the vehicle is turned off. Brake controllers are designed to enter a sleep mode after a period of time when there is no activity. An idle controller draws very little current and will not drain the vehicle battery.
    view full answer...

  • Brake Controller Does Not Have Full Power When Used
  • First, I would go to the 7-way connector and test to make sure you have power. You will want to use a circuit tester, part # PTW2993 to test the wires. Start by testing the Black wire for power, then test the blue wire for brake controller output. To test the blue wire you will need to have a friend help you. With the vehicle in power accessory mode, in park, and parking brake engaged, have them activate the brakes. Next I would check to make sure the Red Stoplight wire is connected
    view full answer...

  • Surge Brakes or Electric Brake Controller for a Trailer Towed by a Motorcycle
  • Electric brakes and brake controllers do require adjustment when the trailer changes weight due to adding or removing a load. As long as you remember to do that there is no problem with the brakes being too aggressive. Surge brakes require a certain amount of momentum, inertia to activate the trailer brakes. The reason you do not see them on trailers towed by motorcycles is because those trailers are light and it does take a lot of pressure to activate the brakes that just isn't present
    view full answer...

  • Recommended Brake Controller for a 2017 Dodge Durango with Factory Installed Tow Package
  • For you 2017 Dodge Durango, i recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Brake Controller, # 90885. The P2 Brake Controller is a proportional brake controller, so it applies brake power to your trailer in proportion to the brake pressure applied to your vehicle. You will get a faster braking response with proportional controllers over the traditional time delay. The Prodigy P2 is more of an entry level brake controller; easy to use, easy to mount, and it works well. That is probably why it is
    view full answer...

  • Brake Controller Recommendation and Installation on a 2003 GMC Sierra with or without Factory 7-Way
  • I did a little research and found that the Dexter Predator, # 58-8, is for 2 to 4 brakes. So if each wheel on your two axle trailer has a brake assembly, or just two of them, this brake controller will work. Brake controllers are not vehicle or trailer specific, so you will be able to use the best one for your application. I recommend going with a proportional controller because they offer the best and safest braking, and will reduce wear on both the trailer and tow vehicle brakes. I
    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...

  • 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...

  • Trailer Brakes Lock Up When Brake Pedal is Pressed Even With Controller Turned All the Way Down
  • Have you tried towing the trailer with another truck? Or towing another trailer with the Dodge? This would help you narrow down whether the problem is with the wiring on the vehicle or the trailer. From what you're describing, it sounds like either something's incorrectly wired on the vehicle or trailer, or the trailer connector on the vehicle is damaged or corroded. This is kind of a strange occurrence, so try what I've mentioned above and get back with me. I've also linked you
    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...

  • How to Test the Under Dash Brake Controller Wiring Adapter on a 2010 Dodge Ram Pickup
  • Testing the connector under the dash on your 2010 Dodge Ram is possible. Hold the connector under the dash with the locking clip up. Now, use a circuit tester, # PT89ZR if needed, and touch the black lead to the top right terminal (ground) and the red lead to the bottom right terminal, this should show 12 volt power for power to the brake controller. Next, touch the red lead to the top left terminal, this should show 12 volt power when the brake pedal is pressed. The bottom left terminal
    view full answer...

  • Trailer Brake Controller Wiring Harness for a 2012 Dodge Ram 1500
  • For a wiring harness that will fit your 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 and has blunt cut wires at the other end, use # 3021-S.
    view full answer...

  • Correct Brake Controller Wiring Harness To Install Brake Controller On 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  • There are two different possible connectors that could be under the dash that vary from different vehicle models. The connector you described is one of them, and should plug into the item you selected, Universal Brake Control Wiring Adapter, part # 3021-S. To install you will connect the wires to the wires coming out of the brake controller color for color. The Red wire of the harness should be connected to the brake switch wire of the brake controller, which should be the Red wire.
    view full answer...

Info for these parts were:

Employee Lindsey S
Edited by:
Lindsey S
Employee Jeff D
Installed by:
Jeff D
Employee Laura H
Updated by:
Laura H
Employee Wilson B
Updated by:
Wilson B
Employee Alexander C
Written by:
Alexander C

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