Brake Controllers

Brake controllers allow a tow vehicle to energize and apply trailer brakes. When a trailer is equipped with auxiliary brakes a brake controller is needed to synchronize the tow vehicle with the trailer brakes and control the application pressure.

If your trailer is equipped with brakes you will need a brake controller to energize them. Most states have laws requiring trailer brakes above a certain gross trailer weight rating. Using trailer brakes can greatly improve the towing experience and the way that the trailer behaves.

Generally, a brake controller is mounted within the drivers reach under the dash or in the footwell area. Many vehicles with a tow package will have a factory connector that allows you to purchase and adaptor kit for a plug and play installation.

All brake controllers use a 4-wire setup and can be hardwired to the vehicle. One end will connect to the controller and the other end is a 4 wire pigtail. 3 wires will be spliced to the existing wiring and one ran to the rear of the tow vehicle for the trailer connector.

A time delay controller is best for someone who tows infrequently. They have a lower cost and can be mounted in any position. They will be more user friendly but have fewer options for setting.

A proportional controller is best for a frequent tower. These will lower wear and tear on the trailer and make towing more comfortable by matching the braking force of the truck and trailer. Proportional controllers will have a higher cost and more options and they must be mounted correctly for the sensors to work.

Depending on the controller, you can control up to 4 axles or 8 brakes.

Not all brake controllers will work with electric over hydraulic brakes. You would have to purchase one that does like Tekonsha P3 #90195.

Time activated brake controllers apply the brakes with a set initial force and increase the force over a period, typically 3 seconds until it is at full power. This will have no relation to the pedal force or the direction of vehicle travel.

No. Because a time activated controller does not have any sensors to account for it can be mounted in any position

A proportional brake controller has a sensor that will determine the braking force of the tow vehicle and match the braking force of the trailer with the tow vehicle. Some models may have extra features built in for towing multiple trailers.

Yes. Most will need to be leveled and in line with the travel of the tow vehicle. This is a requirement for the internal sensors to work correctly.

Cost: A time delay controller is simpler and therefore a lower priced option. Braking Performance: A time delay controller does not factor in the braking force the tow vehicle is using. In an emergency stop situation a proportional will know that more brake pressure is needed. Wear and Tear: A time delay controller can put more braking demand on the tow vehicle until it has ramped up voltage. A proportional will match the braking pressure and allow both to wear more evenly. Mounting: Time delay controllers can be mounted anywhere in any position as long as you can access the controller for settings. A proportional must be mounted in the direction of vehicle travel so the pendulum sensor can read the braking pressure.