Product Details
- Brand: Reese
- Model: 8508211 3023
- 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 13-14 RAM 1500 2500 3500 Electric Trailer Brakes Module Box Controller 1-4 Axle Install Notes
Installation Instructions for Electric Trailer Brake Control Wiring Adapter
Part Number: 302300
Tools Required:
- 10mm Socket & Ratchet or 10mm Wrench
- 1/4” Socket
- Wire Crimpers
- Wire Cutters
- Test Probe
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Locate the Vehicle’s Brake Control Harness
- Locate the electric brake control harness connector under the dashboard:
- It is positioned left of the steering column, near the emergency brake pedal.
- Identify the connectors:
- A 4-pin connector (matches the adapter).
- A 2-pin connector just above the brake pedal.
Step 2: Plug in the Brake Control Adapter
- Plug the brake control adapter into the vehicle’s:
- 4-pin connector (under the dash).
- 2-pin connector (above the brake pedal).
- Follow all brake control manufacturer’s installation instructions for wiring and mounting the brake controller.
Step 3: Locate the 7-Way Trailer Harness Connector
- Locate the 7-way trailer harness connector:
- It is positioned under the vehicle, behind the bumper, near the center.
- Carefully disconnect the connector without damaging the locking tabs.
- Ensure all connector surfaces are clean and free of dirt.
Step 4: Install the Adapter
- Plug the adapter between the factory socket and the 7-way trailer harness connector.
- Ensure all connectors are fully seated and locking tabs are engaged.
Step 5: Mount the Adapter Box
- Locate a flat mounting surface near the 7-way trailer connector.
- Secure the black adapter box using appropriate fasteners.
- Position the box with the epoxy side facing downward to prevent water buildup.
Step 6: Route the Black 12-Gauge Wire
- Connect the black 12-gauge wire to the adapter box using the supplied yellow butt connector.
- Route the black wire along the vehicle frame, avoiding:
- Hot pipes
- Heat shields
- Fuel tanks
- Areas that may pinch or cut the wire.
- Route the wire into the engine compartment, up to the vehicle’s battery.
Step 7: Connect to the Battery
- Disconnect the vehicle’s Negative (-) battery cable.
- If not already done, cut the fuse holder wire and attach the ring terminal.
- Secure the ring terminal to the vehicle’s Positive (+) battery cable.
- Use the supplied yellow butt connector to connect the fuse holder to the black 12-gauge wire.
Step 8: Finalize Wiring
- Reconnect the vehicle’s Negative (-) battery cable.
- Install a 15-amp fuse into the fuse holder.
- Verify all wiring is secure and free from pinch points, heat sources, or sharp edges.
Step 9: Test the Installation
- Use a test light or connect a trailer to verify the 7-way connector functions properly.
- For initial testing, reset the vehicle’s electrical system by temporarily removing the ignition key.
Safety Warnings:
- Do NOT overload the circuit:
- Maximum Capacity: 4 axles / 8 brakes (24 amps).
- Route wires carefully to avoid areas that may cut, pinch, or melt the wire.
- Always read and follow vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines for towing and electrical systems.
- Periodically inspect all connections for signs of wear or damage.
Final Notes:
- Ensure the adapter box is mounted securely with the epoxy side facing downward.
- Use cable ties to secure excess wiring and prevent rattling or wire damage.
- Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for fuse or relay requirements if additional components are needed.
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.