Is Integrated Brake Controller of 2018 Ram 3500 Compatible with Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator

Updated 02/15/2019 | Published 02/14/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi

(243)

$951.13

Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator Adapter Module for Ford and Chevy Brake Controllers

(130)

$262.95

Question:

Are the comparability charts up to date for this actuator? I have a 2018 Ram 3500 with integrated brake controller. I actually have a trailer, a 2007 model, with this model actuator that I am having trouble getting to function with my new truck. Some have said it’s too old so not compatible. So I actually came to your site to see what I might replace the trailer actuator with if it turns out I can’t get it to function properly. Is ther an updated model that is compatible with my 2018 Ram? Thanks

asked by: Bruce

Expert Reply:

HydraStar states that their part # HBA16 will work with the integrated brake controller of a 2018 Ram 3500 like you have. That said, we've found that integrated controllers are pretty hit or miss with electric over hydraulic actuators so I'm not totally surprised you are having an issue. You could try using the adapter part # HBA-CAM which normally allows integrated controllers to work with the actuator, but best option is bypassing the controller and using one that is compatible reliably like the Prodigy P3 part # 90195.

You will need the install harness part # 3024-P as well.

To install an aftermarket brake controller on a 2018 Dodge Ram that has the factory integrated controller you will have to disconnect the ITBM (Integrated Trailer Brake Module). Doing so will turn on a warning lamp on the instrument cluster. In order to disconnect the ITBM and not get the warning lamp, your local Dodge dealer will have to reconfigure the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), of the truck. Once the TIPM has been reconfigured, and the ITBM has been unplugged, you can use a vehicle specific brake control harness such as the Tekonsha # 3024-P, to install the aftermarket brake control.

To disconnect the ITBM, you or the dealer will need to contact the Business Center to remove the sales code (XHC). The TIPM will need to be reconfigured. Once the sales code has been disabled you can disconnect the ITBM electrical connector, under the dash, without getting the warning lamp. Basically the computer needs to be told that the truck does not have a brake controller so you can unplug it without getting that warning light.

expert reply by: Jameson C