7-Way Connector and Brake Controller for a 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 w/out the Tow Package  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hey Paul. Since you have no wiring on your 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 you're going to need to install a 4-Way connector in addition to a 7-Way connector and brake controller. I have listed the parts you'll need below:

4-Way Connector - Hopkins Tail Light Converter with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector item # HM48925. This tail light converter with a 72" 4-way harness converts your Dodge Ram's lighting system to match your trailer's. It's designed specifically for Ram Pickups that have amber turn signals. This provides the lighting functions you'll need for your 7-Way.

7-Way Connector - Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7. The kit includes a pre-wired 7- and 4-way trailer connector that mounts easily at the rear of your Ram with an included bracket. This kit is designed for use on a vehicle with an existing 4-way flat trailer connector and plugs directly into it.

You will then connect the blue wire to the blue wire on the brake controller, connect the black wire to the positive post on your truck's battery, the white wire to a suitable ground, and the yellow wire to the accessory circuit. This will provide you with the ability to control your trailer's brakes and also provide you with a 12v power wire for you trailer's battery.

Brake Controller - Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller item # TK90160. This a proportional brake controller that slows or stops your trailer with the same force your Ram truck is using to slow or brake. The included wiring harness is all you will need to get it set up and working.

I have attached a couple of diagrams, along with installation instructions, and videos to help you get these parts setup.

What kind of trailer are you pulling?

You can add this information and any other questions you have where it says Reply to Jerred H and I'll be happy to answer them.

expert reply by: Jerred H

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Ram Diagram
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ETBC7 Diagram
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Primus Diagram
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Paul

10/7/2025

Thank you for the information Jerred. Actually I misrepresented the situation, so caught up in figuring this out. I do have the factory 4 way plug on the truck. I will use the other information you gave me. I have a 22 foot trailer I use to move around a small 40 hp tractor with a brush hog. Since the trailer has brakes I'd like to use them rather than work the truck harder. I will also use this trailer to haul home a project vehicle in the near future. Figure for that I will need to add a winch. Thanks for the info will look it over again and purchase accordingly. Paul

Jerred H.

10/7/2025

@Paul You're welcome! Yeah go ahead and ignore that 4-way part. Not needing it will definitely make your project easier.