Brake Controller

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F

Free Spirit

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 17, 2016
Posts
60
Location
Houston, Tx area.
I just saw a new term today. BRAKE CONTROLLER.

I can almost figure out what it does but.....
Does it go on the truck or the trailer and do I even need one?

Thanks in advance
 
A brake controller activates and controls the trailer brakes.  If you have any trailer with brakes (typically any trailer over 3k) yes you will need one.  They are found in the tow vehicle.
 
Brake controllers are mounted in the Tow Vehicle where the driver can see it.
They are usually adjustable.

They send power to the electric brakes when the TV brakes are applied.
Generally the harder you press on the brake pedal the more voltage sent to the trailer's electric brakes.

Some newer vehicles have brake controllers built in.

Otherwise an aftermarket unit is installed.  Some vehicles are Pre-wired, if so, an adapter cable can be purchased
which basically makes them a plug and play setup.
 
You probably don't need one on your boat.  ;)  However, if you buy an RV trailer and tow it, you will almost surely need one. I say "almost" because the smallest pop-up trailers might have hydraulic surge brakes instead of electric one. The electric brakes need a controller in the tow vehicle.
 
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