Trailer Brakes Lock Up When Connected to a 2011 Dodge Ram 1500

Published 08/06/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(2763)

$160.19

Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - Dodge

(213)

$17.97

Hopkins Endurance Multi-Tow Trailer Connector Adapter - 7-Way to 6-Way, 5-Way or 4-Way

(192)

$34.97

Question:

I just had the prodigy p2 installed in my 2011 ram 1500 with factory 7 way and 4 way and I tried hooking up to all of my trailers and the controller says not connected and keeps the brakes locked I took it back to the place who installed it and tried it on 2 of there new trailers and they didnt know why it was doing that they said it must be something in my truck so I took it to the dodge dealer and they said that the brake controller doesnt work with ram trucks and said only factory ones work but they want 679$ to install one but everything Ive found on the internet says it fits my truck I just need to know if you have heard of anything like this or no what could be wrong if they even used the right harness or if it just really doesnt fit my truck

asked by: Charles H

Expert Reply:

You very much can use an aftermarket brake controller on your 2011 Dodge Ram 1500. First, for the P2 # 90885, make sure you are using the correct wiring harness, # 3021-P.

Are using a 7-Way to 6-Way adapter? If so the likely issue is that the 12 volt circuit and brake output circuits are swapped causing the brakes to receive a constant 12 volts of power all the time. Using adapter # HM47570 will allow you to easily switch between the two possible configurations of a 6-Way. The adapter plugs into a 7-Way blade style connector.

If you are not using an adapter then there is likely a short or the connector on the truck is corroded. Make sure the connector is clean and free of corrosion inside where the wires attach as well as on the pins.

expert reply by: Michael H