Troubleshooting Ford Factory Trailer Brake Controller that Fails to Operate EOH Trailer Brakes

Updated 07/22/2015 | Published 07/21/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter BrakeRite II Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator Kit - Vented - 1,500 psi

(37)

$1245.41

Adapter Module for BrakeRite Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator - OE Ford, GM Brake Controllers

(87)

$143.91

Question:

Hello, I have tried 2 trailers with this EOH part BrakeRite. I have a 2013 F150 max tow package with integral controller. Both trailers were installed by an authorized dealer. Both trailers work when connected to a toyota tundra. Neither works connected to my F150. If i use the manual actuator squeeeze controller in the cab, if I squeeze a few times the electric actuator pump will eventually work. The electric actuator pump will never work when I press the brake pedal. This is with gain set to 10.0 max. My truck brake controller is set to EOH. Ive ordered the 4846000 - but from all indications that was for pre-2013 when EOH vs Electric settings were not available. Do I install the 4846000 and see if that somehow fixes the issue?

asked by: Tony

Expert Reply:

The factory integrated brake controller in your 2013 Ford F-150 does have a second operation setting for EOH trailer brakes, unlike the 2012 and earlier model year controllers. So, it SHOULD work with your Titan BrakeRite EHB Electric-Hydraulic Actuator # T4813102 WITHOUT the adapter # DX35FR.

If you have access to a trailer with electric brakes you can test the controller (using its electric trailer brake setting, of course) to see if it functions correctly in that mode. If not it is probably all done and needs to be replaced.

Your story is quite common. Many folks that gave a shot to the Ford and Dodge factory controllers end up replacing them with a better and less costly aftermarket unit like the Prodigy P3 # 90195 simply because these proven brake controllers just work better in EOH systems. Factory controllers are usually fine with electric brakes though. You can use harness # 22292 to connect the P3 to your truck's under-dash port. The P3 works with both electric and EOH brakes. An install video for a similar unit is linked for you.

expert reply by: Adam R