Electronic Trailer Brake Controller Information
Electronic trailer brake controllers are important tools when towing trailers that are too heavy for your vehicle to stop effectively. Properly set an electronic trailer brake controller will ensure your vehicle and trailer stops smoothly and in a proper distance.
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Function
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Many travel trailers are equipped with electric brakes to help alleviate the load placed on a tow vehicle when braking. An electronic trailer brake controller acts as a communication device between the trucks brakes and trailer your hauling brakes. It is used to balance the amount of brake to ensure a smooth stop.
Types
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The two types of electronic trailer brake controllers are time delay and proportional. Proportional brake controllers use a motion sensing device to control how much braking power is applied to the trailer brakes. Once the brake pedal is depressed the motion sensor immediately activates the brakes of the trailer. Time delayed models use a brake setting that is set by the user. Once the brake pedal is depressed the controller activates the trailers brakes but it is done in increments. This causes a delay from when you press on the brakes until full power of the trailer brakes is applied.
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Costs
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Electronic trailer brake controllers range in price from $50 to $150. Time delayed models usually will be priced a little less then the proportional models. The major price difference is between the brand name manufacturers like Tekonsha and generic made models. There are not many differences between models except quality of construction.
Installation
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Installation of an electronic brake controller depends upon the vehicle it is being installed on. Many trucks are prewired for brake controllers, and it is as simple as plugging it in and attaching it to the dash. For vehicles that are not prewired, it is required that you tap into your vehicles wire harnesses to splice the necessary wires in. This can be difficult and should be done by a professional.
Warning
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Improperly wired or set electronic trailer brake controllers can make stopping more dangerous then without one. If a brake controller fails due to improper installation you might not be able to stop in time resulting in an accident. Also, improperly setting a time delayed model can cause either too much or too little brake to be applied. Too much brake setting can cause the trailers brakes to lock up and make the trailer skid out of control.
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