Product Details
- Brand: Reese
- Model: 8508211 3035-7
- 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 94-97 Ford F-250 F-350 Electric Trailer Brakes Module Box Controller 1-4 Axle Install Notes
Installation Instructions for Electric Trailer Brake Control Wiring Adapter
Part Number: 303500
Tools Required:
- Test Light
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Locate the Vehicle’s Electric Brake Control Harness
- Locate the electric brake control harness under the dashboard:
- Near the center console on most vehicles.
- For Ford Full-Size Vans: Underneath and to the left of the steering column.
- For Ford Explorer/Mercury Mountaineer:
- Behind the glove box on the passenger side, or
- Underneath and to the left of the steering column, taped to another harness near the emergency brake pedal.
- Identify the 6-pin connector that matches the adapter’s plug.
Step 2: Verify Battery Power
- Use a test light to probe the connector and verify that battery power is supplied.
- Alternatively, follow the wires from the connector to ensure they are not disconnected behind the instrument panel.
If battery power is present:
- Proceed to Step 4.
If no battery power is present:
- Follow Step 3 to add power.
Step 3: Add Power to the Connector
- Use an electric brake control wiring kit to route the required wires as follows:
- Cut the battery feed wire at the vehicle connector, leaving enough wire to splice.
- Use the supplied butt connector to connect the wiring kit’s battery feed wire to the vehicle harness.
- Cut the trailer brake wire at the vehicle connector, leaving enough wire to splice.
- Connect the wiring kit’s trailer brake wire using the supplied butt connector.
Step 4: Connect the Adapter
- Plug the brake control adapter into the vehicle’s electric brake control harness connector.
- Follow the brake control manufacturer’s installation instructions to wire and mount the brake controller unit.
Step 5: Test the Installation
- Complete the installation as instructed by the brake control manufacturer.
- Perform all test procedures to verify proper operation of the trailer brake system.
Warnings:
- Overloading the Circuit May Cause Fires:
- DO NOT exceed the lower of the following:
- The vehicle manufacturer’s towing rating, or
- Maximum Capacity: 4 axles / 8 brakes (24 amps).
- DO NOT exceed the lower of the following:
- Always read and follow the vehicle owner’s manual and the brake controller installation instructions.
Wiring Overview:
- Battery Feed (Fused): Supplies power to the brake controller.
- Ground: Ensures proper grounding for the brake controller system.
- Stop Lamp Switch (Input): Provides a braking signal to the brake controller.
- Trailer Brake Controller (Output): Sends braking signals to the trailer brakes.
Safety Notes:
- Verify all wiring connections are secure and routed away from:
- Sharp edges
- Hot surfaces
- Moving parts
- Inspect the adapter and wiring periodically for wear or damage.
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.