Troubleshooting Weak Trailer Brakes on 2015 Ram 2500 with Factory Controller

Published 09/21/2017

Question:

I read the answer to this question in the subject line and I have almost identical results. 2015 ram cummins 2500 with IBC and do not feel like braking from trailer is sufficient. Especially at slower speeds. i also checked the output of the brake controller using the slide I cant get more than 7.5 Volts. Ive read that Ram limits the output to 70 under certain circumstances. Does anyone know what logic the integrated controller uses? I am uncomfortable Grossing 22k lbs in Colorado not knowing if the controller is functioning properly. Truck has settings for Light Electric Heavy Electric - Currently ed for an 11k lb trailer. Electric Over Hydraulic - Im wondering if I could use this setting and if it sends more power to the brakes????

asked by: Derick

Expert Reply:

If you are only getting around 7 volts at the vehicle side connector on your Ram, especially when using the manual slide on the brake controller, it's likely there is some kind of wiring issue on the vehicle. You can verify this by also testing at the output wire (blue) at the back of the factory controller. If you do get 12 volts there, then this simply indicates that the controller is working as it should, but there is something going on in the wiring that is causing a voltage drop before it gets to the trailer connector.

Check for any breaks in the wiring (frayed portions, exposed areas), loose connections or any corrosion and debris that might have built up inside the trailer connector itself.

If you are still unable to resolve the issue, please let me know and I will be happy to look into this further.

expert reply by: Chris R