I ordered a P3 (I think) right before we traded in the 99 f350 on a 2008 f350. Took it out of the box, never installed it. I’m not sure if I can return it or not.
The 2008 f350 has a built in brake controller with 4 auxillary switches that do something unknown. We have a 4 horse with 12’ short wall thats about 10k lb empty. We will be hauling a lot of rural 2-lane roads, some with a 70mph speed limit.
Should we use the built-in controller or install the P3?
The built-in controller has a very good reputation. It’s ready to go, so try it!
I’m sure you can find someone to buy the Tekonsha but you will probably lose some money selling “used/like new”.
The aux switches are unrelated to the brake controller. They are not wired to anything and are intended to make a professional interface for things added to the truck - e.g. plow controls, airbags, extra lights, etc.
Built in controller all the way.
Last time it came up the only bad thing anybody had to say about the built in was that if it fails you are paying factory prices for a new one.
Until then, there’s no good reason to mess with factory wiring to install something that is probably not as good.
Integrated Controller is the best. It basically uses the pressure you put on the pedal to determine the activation rate applied to the trailer brakes ( at any set gain level 1-10 on the controller ) so it is more consistent with various speeds, as well as eliminating any initial surge in the braking - Much smoother for horses. We have 2 with integrated controllers, and don’t intend to buy without one in the future.
Those other switches as stated above are for any aftermarket accessories you may add to the truck. I use one to switch the aux power to the trailer wire, so I can switch trailer accessories as need in transit, depending on which trailer I’m pulling.
Thanks guys. We will test out the integrated controller this weekend to make sure it works before returning the P3. Any tips on how to make sure the integrated works properly or how to set it? I’ve always had tiny 2h trailers with no brakes.
Test it the same as any controller. With the trailer empty drive about 20 mph then activate just the trailer brakes by using he slider lever on the dash. You should feel th trailer brakes pull you to a stop without locking and sliding the tires. If they lock, lower the setting. If they don’t pull you down, increase the setting.
Remember to increase the setting when loaded, and decrease the setting when empty. You will quickly find the proper settings for the weight.
By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You may also receive promotional emails from The Chronicle of the Horse. You can opt out at any time.
For Customers
Company
Terms of Use
