trailer controler connection

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Apr 8, 2018 | 06:46 AM

dnewton3

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trailer controler connection

I am looking at a new 2018 F250 SD with minimal options; vehicle is on the lot and pretty much the way I'd want it. However ...
It does NOT have the integrated TBC (trailer brake controller) option.

Questions:
- do the 2018 SD trucks come with a pigtail to connect an aftermarket brake controller?
- do they have a "port" to plug this pigtail into? (where located?)

It's been quite some time since I've bought a "new" truck, and want to make sure I'm not going to have to splice a main wiring harness. It used to be that they would put the pigtail in the glove box, and there would be a port under the dash. That way you could wire the controller to the pigtail, and then just "plug n play" the aftermarket controller. Is this still done if the integrated TBC option is not on the vehicle?

Apr 8, 2018 | 08:53 AM

Snowman 8

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Joined: Sep 2011

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From: Minnesota

Make a deal with the selling dealer to install a Ford factory trailer brake controller if you are going to buy the truck. I believe it is a very simple install. I bought a 2013 F150 that didn’t have a brake controller and I made a deal with them to throw it in if I bought the truck. They said if I installed it they would activate it. The day we signed the papers the salesman gave me the controller in the box so I walked out into the lot and installed it right there. I’m sure the Superduty’s are the same way and someone will chime in soon. I wouldn’t even mess with and aftermarket controller because the factory one seems to work much better.

Apr 8, 2018 | 08:59 AM

senix

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From: Frederick, MD

The TBC will be a plug and play, followed by a PCM update to enable the controller.

I would highly suggest the OEM controller vs a aftermarket one. You will get several settings and the ability to have electric over hydraulic.

Apr 8, 2018 | 11:58 AM

rebauto

Cross-Country

Joined: May 2014

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From: Huntsville, Texas

Ordered the TBC on my 2017 F250 XL CCSB work truck, but when it came in, it wasn't there. Apparently it got missed somewhere between the order and the build. Dealership installed a factory in dash TBC and programmed the computer. Much better than having to deal with aftermarket in my opinion.

Apr 8, 2018 | 12:26 PM

mwheue

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Joined: Jul 2013

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From: Everett, Washington

Not sure if my XL is like the other models, but I installed a tekonsha prodigy P3 aftermarket controller in 15 minutes and had to program nothing. It worked as soon as I plugged it in and also has the electric over hydraulic setting. however I think a factory controller would look better integrated into the dash and it cost no more than aftermarket. Picture is a F-150 but plug is in same location.

Last edited by mwheue; Apr 8, 2018 at 12:38 PM. Reason: Added Photo

Apr 8, 2018 | 01:31 PM

HRTKD

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Joined: Oct 2015

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From: Wyoming

I had the Prodigy P3 in my prior truck. It's a great controller. But in a Superduty I would go with the OEM controller, even if it was the dealer installing it. It's a cleaner look and it integrates better.

Apr 8, 2018 | 03:36 PM

mhoefer

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Joined: Jan 2005

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From: BC Canada

The factory controller is better integrated with the truck for antilock braking, anti sway and skid. You get a way better solution with the stock controller. I would want the deal written up with install and activation as a dealer installed item you get the full warranty vs two years as a part. This way all integration with the vehicle control modules is covered.