Product Details
- Brand: Reese
- Model: 8508211 3034-7
- Includes: BRAKE-EVN Proportional Brake Controller for Trailers with 1-4 Axles, Trailer Brake Controller Custom Harness
Compatibility Chart
Description
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Trailer Brake Control for 08-16 Ford F-250 F-350 F-450 F-550 Super Duty Electric Trailer Brakes Module Box Controller 1-4 Axle Install Notes
Installation Instructions for Electric Trailer Brake Control Wiring Adapter
Part Number: 303400
Tools Required:
- Trim Panel Remover
- Flashlight
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preparation
- Make sure the vehicle is off, and the keys are removed from the ignition.
Step 2: Remove the Access Panel
- Locate the access panel in the center of the dash on the passenger side.
- Use a trim panel puller to carefully pry the panel away from the dash:
- Insert the tool at the notch in the panel.
- Avoid damaging the trim or panel.
- Unplug any housings attached to the panel.
- Be careful not to damage the locking tabs.
- Set the panel aside.
Step 3: Identify the Connector
-
If the vehicle has a factory-installed brake controller:
- Locate the large grey housing plugged into the back of the unit.
- You may need to disconnect additional harnesses to access the location.
NOTE: Disconnecting the factory-installed brake control may cause a fault code to display on the dash message center.
-
If the vehicle does not have a factory brake controller:
- Locate the grey housing on the back of the trim panel directly left of the access panel.
Step 4: Install the Brake Control Adapter
- Carefully pull the grey housing toward the access panel opening.
- Plug in the brake control adapter housing.
Step 5: Route the Adapter
- Locate a routing path for the adapter to exit the bottom of the dashboard:
- Use a flashlight to shine light through the bottom of the dash to find an exit hole.
- Route the adapter securely through the opening.
Step 6: Complete Installation
- Complete the installation per the brake controller manufacturer’s instructions.
- Mount the brake controller unit securely as directed.
- Perform the test procedures provided in the brake controller manual.
Step 7: Reassemble
- Plug any unused connectors back into their original housings.
- Snap the access panel back into place.
Notes:
- Vehicles not equipped with an OEM trailer tow package may require additional fuses and relays to complete the output and battery feed circuits.
- These components are sold separately.
- Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for fuse and relay locations.
Safety Warnings:
- Overloading the Circuit Can Cause Fires:
- DO NOT exceed the lower of the following:
- Manufacturer’s towing rating, or
- Maximum Capacity: 3 axles / 6 brakes (18 amps).
- DO NOT exceed the lower of the following:
- Carefully follow all vehicle warnings and safety precautions.
- Always read and follow the vehicle owner’s manual and brake controller instructions.
Wiring Overview:
- Trailer Brake Controller (Output): Sends braking signal to the trailer brakes.
- Fused Battery Feed: Supplies power to the brake controller.
- Stop Lamp Switch (Input): Provides braking signal from the vehicle.
- Ground: Connects the controller to the vehicle chassis.
Final Notes:
- Inspect the adapter and connections periodically for wear or damage.
- Ensure all wires are routed away from sharp edges, hot surfaces, and moving parts.
End of Instructions
Installation Instructions for Electronic Brake Control
Product Information:
- Model: Electronic Brake Control for 2, 4, 6, & 8 Brake Applications
- Part Number: N8508211
Components of the Brake Control:
- A. Output (Gain) Control
- B. Boost Control
- C. Manual Slide Control
- D. Bracket Mounting Holes
- E. LED Display
Package Includes:
- (1) Brake Control Unit
- (1) Mounting Bracket
- (4) Self-Tapping Mounting Screws (#6 x 3/8")
- (1) Warranty Card
Tools Required:
- Drill with 1/8” bit
- Wire Crimping Tool
- Probe-Type Circuit Tester
- Wire Cutter/Stripper
- Phillips Screwdriver or 1/4” Nut Driver
Wiring Connections:
- Black Wire: Vehicle Power
- White Wire: Vehicle Ground
- Red Wire: Stoplight Switch
- Blue Wire: Trailer Brakes
Step-by-Step Installation:
Step 1: Selecting a Mounting Location
-
Choose a location that is:
- Secure and solid for mounting.
- Easily accessible to the driver.
- Clear behind the surface to avoid damaging wiring or components when drilling.
-
Use the bracket as a template to mark hole locations.
Step 2: Mounting the Brake Control
- Drill holes at the marked locations using a 1/8” drill bit.
- Secure the bracket using (2) self-tapping screws.
- Mount the brake control unit to the bracket using the remaining screws.
Step 3: Wiring the Brake Control
-
Follow the wiring instructions:
- Black Wire: Connect to a constant 12V power source using a 30A auto-reset circuit breaker.
- White Wire: Connect to a solid vehicle ground.
- Red Wire: Connect to the stoplight switch wire.
- Blue Wire: Connect to the trailer brake output wire.
-
Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated.
Adjusting Power to the Trailer Brakes:
-
Connect the trailer to the tow vehicle.
-
With the engine running, hold the Manual Slide Control to the left and set the Output/Gain Control to approximately 5.0.
-
Drive at 25 mph on a dry, level surface.
-
Fully apply the Manual Slide Control:
- If the brakes lock up: Reduce the Output/Gain.
- If braking is insufficient: Increase the Output/Gain.
-
Repeat until braking force is just below wheel lock-up.
Boost Settings:
The Boost feature increases brake sensitivity with three levels:
- b.1: Starts braking at 14% power.
- b.2: Starts braking at 28% power.
- b.3: Provides the most aggressive braking for heavy trailers.
To Adjust Boost Settings:
- Press the Boost Button to display the current setting.
- Use the + or - buttons to adjust.
Manual Control:
- Location: Right side of the brake control.
- The Manual Slide Control applies trailer brakes without activating vehicle brakes.
- Slide left to apply braking force manually.
- The power level can be monitored on the LED display.
LED Display Information:
Indicator | Meaning |
---|---|
Green | Trailer connected. |
Red | Brakes applied. |
Flashing | Wiring issues or short circuit detected. |
Troubleshooting:
Problem | Cause | Solution |
---|---|---|
No LED Display | No power or ground connection. | Check wiring connections. |
Brakes Too Aggressive | Boost or Output/Gain set too high. | Reduce settings. |
Trailer Brakes Not Responding | Insufficient power output. | Increase Gain setting. |
Flashing Display (2 per second) | Short circuit or overload detected. | Inspect trailer wiring and connections. |
Brake Adjustment Guide:
- Raise and secure the trailer with jack stands.
- Remove the brake backing plate cover.
- Adjust the brake shoes outward until the wheels are hard to turn.
- Back off slightly until the wheels spin freely with a slight drag.
Safety Notes:
- Always test trailer brakes at low speeds.
- Do not exceed the vehicle's Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR).
- Regularly inspect and adjust trailer brakes every 3,000 miles.
Technical Assistance:
For technical support and assistance, our team of experts is available to help.
You can reach our tech support by visiting www.trailerjacks.com or calling 877-869-6690.
Warranty Information:
- Limited Warranty: Covers defects in materials and workmanship.
- Excludes misuse, improper installation, and normal wear and tear.
For complete warranty instructions, please download the full installation PDF.