How To Install a Trailer Brake Controller?

Towing RV

Trying to install your trailer brake controller?

In my opinion, it’s a great idea. In fact, it’s the best idea when you want to go on a picnic or road trip without staying in a hotel. And a trailer brake controller installation will secure your vehicle on the way.

Therefore, in my article today, I will show you how to install a trailer brake controller. I hope you will find it quick to implement.

Proportional controller
Via: www.autoanything.com

The tools that you will definitely need

How to install a trailer brake controller?

Step 1: Choose an appropriate brake controller

First, you need to understand your vehicle to choose the most suitable brake controller. There are two common types of trailer brake controller installation:

  • Time-delayed controller

It works based on your anticipation of the braking capacity of your car and the weight of the trailer as well as the cargo in it. Fundamentally, you need to manually synchronize the time that your vehicle and trailer stop by adjusting the braking force.

Sometimes, it is relatively hard to do that because it requires you to conduct various tests and takes quite much time. Therefore, time-delayed controller is often used for occasional towing with light-weight trailer and cargo.

However, due to its size, it can be installed in almost any car.

  • Proportional controller

Comparing to time-delayed controllers, proportional types are much more expensive. There is nothing strange because its price goes with its quality. You will never have to adjust the force by yourself when using a proportional controller. It will automatically do that for you.

Besides, it also provides a smoother, faster, and safer tow than the previous controller. You can experience much less attrition after using it for a while due to the flexible braking force between your vehicle and the trailer.

It works best with heavy tows and weighty cargo. Nevertheless, it is larger than time-delayed controller so you need to measure the place you want to install it before choosing the right one.

Fortunately, there is no difference in the installing process of the two controllers. You can follow my subsequent instructions.