Brake Controller and towing Hitch

jenniferlzr

I'm trying to find a brake controller for a Grand Cherokee. I was about to order the Prodigy P3 (90195) with the 3045-P wire harness ?? but want to make sure this is compatible. I've read on here that the Jeep dash is too low to install this type of brake controller, but I've watched a video on E-trailer where he installs one on the lower dash. Will this work? I need to get this delivered before I go pick up the TAB 400. Also, what kind of hitch do I need? I know I need a 2" ball hitch, but I've see "drop hitch" and other types. The car has the tow package, so it has the receiver, I just need the ball part. 

pthomas745

What year Cherokee?

CrabTab

We've been satisfied with the Redarc Tow Pro Elite brake controller in our Colorado. A small dial control is mounted in the dash and the main unit is on the firewall. No knee banging involved! Don't have a 400, so can't suggest the amount of drop for your hitch.

jenniferlzr

2015 Limited 4x4 V6 with tow package 

Denny16

Jennifer, if not going with an OEM controller, I think the in dash Redarc Elite is the way to go, and installs like the OEM.  This is what I am going to end up
doing this summer, if the Jeep Gladiator OEM controller is not released.
Good luck with your new Tab, and take your time coming back, do not rush the trip.  

Cheers

trimtab

We had a LivinLite trailer for two years.  Used this inexpensive controller...worked great.tekonsha 90195 p3 electronic brake control

webers3

P3 fits perfect in my Cherokee's coin box on lower left side of the dash, and with the harness for the Jeep install was easy. P3 works very well

ChrisFix

I just installed a Redarc trailer brake controller - Like you, just to go pick up a new T@B 400!- and highly recommend it if you don't want something hanging off the dash. I personally couldn't stand to have a knee knocker just hanging there, and the Redarc is a very clean install, although a bit more of a custom install than the under-dash units, as you have to drill a hole somewhere in the dash panel to mount the control knob. Redarc has a very good reputation for customer support, and the brake controller performance is reputed to be top notch.

And the drop or rise needed will depend on the height of your cars hitch receiver as compared to the height of the T@B's hitch coupler. Make sure to account for the amount of 'squat' that the rear of your car will have when loaded with approx 400 lbs. of tongue weight from the T@B, as this will make the actual hitched height of the receiver lower, probably by at least 2". 

Denny16

Most third party brake controllers out there will do the job.  It is how they mint and wire in on various TV that is the issue.  With Jeeps, like the SUVs and newer Wranglers/Gladiator mounting becomes even more problematic.  Wiring harness choices very limited.  The Redarc was designed for Aussie outback and off road vehicles, and has better mounting options.   It also offers a full three way proportional control for in highway and a user direct control for dirt roads and off road situations.  See: https://redarcelectronics.com/products/tow-pro-elite-electric-brake-controller

Cheers

N7SHG_Ham

As far as hitch height, you can figure that out with a tape measure and simple math if you know height of that trailer when level. The height has been posted here previously along with the diagram and math, let me see if I can find the old threads.

Here is a thread showing how you figure out what you need. Now all you need is height of the 400 when level and it will be different from regular to Boondock models.

https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/10247/hitch-drop

jenniferlzr

Thanks so much!