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Factory trailer brake controller

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Old Jan 20, 2011 | 05:59 PM
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Question Factory trailer brake controller??

My new truck has the tow pkg, but didn't come with a brake controller. Can the factory brake controller be ordered from Ford and installed at the dealer? Could I install it myself??

The dealer suggested I get a controller installed at an RV place down the road. I assume this would be an aftermarket controller that isn't integrated with the tow features of the onboard display system. I'd much rather have the integrated factory controller if it can be installed without hacking up the trim.

I have a 20' pipe trailer and tow upwards of 9K occasionally.
Bob

Last edited by windshear; Jan 20, 2011 at 07:13 PM.
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Old Jan 20, 2011 | 07:16 PM
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There is a very detailed thread on here somewhere about it but yes it will install, in place of a change tray I think. Dealer may have to do some wizardry with their programmer to turn it on though.
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Old Jan 20, 2011 | 07:38 PM
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Yes it can be installed easily by you I believe, and the FORD dealer will have to reflash your computer to make it all work but all in all not a hard project you get a new trailer brake controller OEM on ebay for under 50 bucks
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Old Jan 20, 2011 | 07:48 PM
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Originally Posted by 05FX4-
Yes it can be installed easily by you I believe, and the FORD dealer will have to reflash your computer to make it all work but all in all not a hard project you get a new trailer brake controller OEM on ebay for under 50 bucks
Where are you looking to find Factory controllers for less than 50 bucks? Every one I have seen has been going for no less than $180.
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Old Jan 20, 2011 | 08:58 PM
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Originally Posted by hd2000
Where are you looking to find Factory controllers for less than 50 bucks? Every one I have seen has been going for no less than $180.
You are correct I do not know why I thought they were so cheap, shouldve confirmed before I posted.
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Old Jan 20, 2011 | 09:20 PM
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but the one positive thing about it is.........
its factory..... it looks like factory.....
thats what i like about it.
dont have one under the dash hitting ones knee.
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Old Jan 20, 2011 | 09:43 PM
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Not only is it a neater and cleaner installation than aftermarket, the factory controller works smoother than any aftermarket brake controller I've ever had. Its well worth whatever cost and inconvenience might be involved to install and have the truck programed.
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Old Jan 20, 2011 | 09:56 PM
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Bought mine from the dealer $220, brought it home and installed it in ten minutes, and the dealer programmed the computer for $45. There is a nice write up with pics of install. I can't link it from my phone.
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Old Jan 20, 2011 | 10:12 PM
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Here's the most recent thread that gives lots of details and everything you need to know to install the Ford OEM TBC. As I've said in previous threads on this topic, there are three key points-
1. There is a differnece between the 2009 and 2010, make sure you get the right part.
2. You can install it yourself, if you have minimum skills.
3. It MUST be activated by a Ford dealer, but there are at least a few dealers out there who will do it for free


https://www.f150forum.com/f38/2010-t...install-48262/
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Old Jan 20, 2011 | 10:16 PM
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Originally Posted by 05FX4-
You are correct I do not know why I thought they were so cheap, shouldve confirmed before I posted.
No worries. I've been eying them and was gonna seal the deal for $50.
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