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Adding OEM Trailer Brake Controller

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Old Feb 24, 2025 | 12:52 PM
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Adding OEM Trailer Brake Controller

Hey guys - I've got a 2020 F350 w/7.3L. It's the XL trim so it did not come from the factory with the trailer brake controller on the dash. It's got the dummy plate of course but wanted to see if anyone here has had to add a controller to the XL models? Is the factory wiring right there behind the plate? Any input on aftermarket controllers to stay away from or just go OEM? I saw a few on amazon that are aftermarket. Any advice or info much appreciated.
 
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Old Feb 24, 2025 | 01:15 PM
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IIRC yes the wiring should be there. I believe you have to flash the computer to have it recognize that the ITBC is now present.

Some on here will swear by the aftermarket controllers...but the seamless integration of the ITBC is where it's at. Tell it what kind of brakes you have, set your gain right, and it's like not having a trailer back there when you press on the brake pedal.
 
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Old Feb 24, 2025 | 01:15 PM
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Originally Posted by Rcksblr
Hey guys - I've got a 2020 F350 w/7.3L. It's the XL trim so it did not come from the factory with the trailer brake controller on the dash. It's got the dummy plate of course but wanted to see if anyone here has had to add a controller to the XL models? Is the factory wiring right there behind the plate? Any input on aftermarket controllers to stay away from or just go OEM? I saw a few on amazon that are aftermarket. Any advice or info much appreciated.
I added a used OEM trailer brake controller to my 2019 F250 XL. The wiring harness was in the dash behind the plate. Plugged in the controller and enabled it through Forscan. It was very easy. I think I paid $60 for the controller on eBay, came out of a wrecked truck.
 
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Old Feb 24, 2025 | 01:33 PM
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Originally Posted by 99powerstrokedF250
IIRC yes the wiring should be there. I believe you have to flash the computer to have it recognize that the ITBC is now present.

Some on here will swear by the aftermarket controllers...but the seamless integration of the ITBC is where it's at. Tell it what kind of brakes you have, set your gain right, and it's like not having a trailer back there when you press on the brake pedal.
Got it, thanks. I'm willing to spend a bit more to get a proper controller if that means I will get a better experience trailering and also making sure the truck recognizes the new controller.
 
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Old Feb 24, 2025 | 01:34 PM
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Originally Posted by Jay870
I added a used OEM trailer brake controller to my 2019 F250 XL. The wiring harness was in the dash behind the plate. Plugged in the controller and enabled it through Forscan. It was very easy. I think I paid $60 for the controller on eBay, came out of a wrecked truck.
Nice. I will have to check Ebay, I didn't think about that. I do have Forscan already so sounds like it should be a breeze. Thank you!
 
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Old Feb 26, 2025 | 09:56 AM
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Does anyone know the Part # by chance on these integrated brake controllers? I called my local wrecking yard and they have several of these controllers from wrecked pickups. They said they have a few options for my make/model. 2020 Ford F350 XL. 7.3L

Also can I use ForScan to activate the controller? Most the stuff I found online showed guys using IDS which I do not have. Also checked ForScan spreadsheets I have used in the past from this site and don't see anything for Trailer Brake Controllers besides enabling TPMS for trailers. Any help appreciated!
 
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Old Feb 27, 2025 | 06:38 AM
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I don't know off hand, but googling what you're looking for should give you the part number. The other option is to call your local dealer with your VIN and ask them what part number you'd need - they're pretty good about getting you that number even if you don't buy from them.

That said, I'm sure someone will chime in with what the part number is - a lot of guys have done this.
 
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