electric trailer brake controllers

[archer2500]

I just wanted some feedback from the masses on which electric trailer brake controller(s) are worthwhile. I see that there is a "Tap Brake-force" and a "tekonsha prodigy". Any comments are more than welcome. I have an '05 and dont pull much 5th wheel but if I do its a 36' horse trailer or a 48' flatbed.

 

[JFinke]

I like the prodigy that I have. Much better than the old draw tite controler it replaced. I also like how clean it installs with the no splice cord I ordered with it. Has the right ends to plug into the truck and controller. Jake

 

[jkalchik]

If you're looking for the simplest install, Tekonsha Prodigy is the way to go. FTM, I wouldn't recommend any other inertial controller.



There's also Jordan, which uses a cable to sense the brake pedal position, as well as Brakesmart which taps into the vehicle brake hydraulics. Both of this are a more positive brake engagement as the trailer brakes WILL go on when you hit the brakes. The inertial controllers can have some issues on slick surfaces.

 

[FordCummins]

Another vote for the Prodigy. It is ridiculously easy to install, and the self-leveling feature makes setting it up a snap. The readout to tell you power to the brakes, whether its hooked up or not and other troubleshooting functions is great, and the "Boost" feature is a very well thought out addition. Check out www.rjays.com if you are looking to buy one online. Cheapest I've found, with lightning fast shipping.

 

[GFrance]

check this one out. www.brakesmart.net hooks into the hydraulics real easy instal has capability of one to four axles. Also they are working on a pyro & boost gauge that works off the controller display. No adjustments needed & it stops like my semi trailer with no delay time.

 

[RCorbeil]

Brake Smart, work very very well on my 33' 5er



Ron

 

[JL penner]

I have the prodigy. It's the best you can buy for Electric brake contorllers. I've heard lots of pros about the Brakesmart controller, but I would be worried about tapping into my brake lines. Plus the Prodigy is way less expensive.

 

[RustyJC]

The Prodigy may be the simplest to install and/or the most readily available, but it's hardly the best. That's like saying the Big Mac is the best hamburger in America since more of them are sold than any others.



I've run ramped time-based, inertial and proportional controllers. The Brakesmart is almost assuredly the most competent aftermarket brake controller available today, but as far as bang-for-the-buck is concerned, the Jordan Ultima 2020 provides a true proportional controller (versus the inertial Prodigy) for less than $100 with a little Internet shopping.



Rusty

 

[BobS]

One more vote for brakesmart, installed mine this spring and while I only have 350 miles of towing so far, it is vastly superior to others I have used. Installation was 2 hours, mostly finding a way to mount the controller in my ash tray socket. The unit is pricey but the technology works as advertised.

 

[archer2500]

What are the big differences between inertial controllers and solid-state controllers? Does the prodigy have to be mounted in a vertical or horizontal position or can I just mount somewhere near my right knee on the panel there?

 

[GAmes]

I have a Prodigy and I like it, but it is not compatible with the electo-hydraulic brakes being installed in some of the newer trailers. I am switching to a Brakesmart.