Electric Over Hydraulic Brakes Not Operating Correctly When Connected to a 2017 Ram 3500

Updated 03/10/2017 | Published 03/09/2017

Question:

I have a 2017 Ram 3500 with a built in controller. We added the extra module to go with the hyrdrastar as we have done on many trailers. Truck reads no brakes connected. Is there something Im missing? I read on here that some new trucks will not work with hydraulic at all and an aftermarket controller is rquired. Is that the case here?

asked by: Clint

Expert Reply:

If you 2017 Ram 3500 is equipped with in Integrated Trailer Brake Module (ITBM), then you should not have to use a Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator, like # HBA-CAM. The factory ITBM will allow you to connect to your Hydrastar Actuator through the vehicle's brake controller.

First, you will need to remove the adapter from the brake system. Then hook the truck and trailer up again like you had before, minus the adapter. Check to see if your Ram is connecting to the actuator.

If you are still not connecting to your Electric Over Hydraulic (EOH) system, then according to the page 564 of the 2017 Ram Owner's Manual, you will have to select the correct trailer info listed from the instrument cluster display options. The ITBM has to set in EOH mode before it will be able to recognize the Hydrastar actuator on your trailer.

If issue continues, then you may need to contact the Ram dealer to see if there is another step that need to be done before you can use the truck with EOH trailer. Some manufacturers require a return to the dealer to turn on or set up the towing option on the vehicle, but I do not know for sure is Ram requires this or not.

expert reply by: Jared P