2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Trailer brake controller

[RDBuck]

I want to tow a trailer with electric brakes with my 02. Any advice on what control box works best,where to buy? I assume it is a plug-in deal.

Thanks in advance.

 

[nps]

You may get more replies from this post in the Towing and Hauling forum.



I've got a Jordan Ultima and couldn't be happier with it. Do a google search and you can order on the internet - 2 days it's at your door. The Jordan is a proportional system that connects to the brake pedal - the more you push the pedal, the more the trailer brakes are applied. Very smooth operation.



The other proportional system is Brakesmart. Those that have it are happy. It is more $, and there were some delivery delays. Don't know if they have worked out the delivery issues.



The third choice that can be found at most RV shops is the Prodigy. Those that have it are happy. It is an inertial system that senses the vehicle slowing to apply the trailer brakes.





Anything else is junk IMO and I wouldn't recommend you consider any of them.



All three plug in to the connector under the dash by the e-brake (assuming you have the tow package).



The Jordan and Brakesmart need to tap into the brake system to work (pedal for Jordan, Brakesmart goes into the brake line.



The Prodigy just plugs in (providing you've got it aligned within its level limits). The ease of Prodigy install is why RV shops like to sell it.

 

[2-ND TIME]

brakes

Sorry don't know more but hear that the 3 wire system is bad on hills for applying brakes.

 

[rowilson]

I'll second the Jordan. Love mine.

 

[Loren]

Nps's summary is excellent.



I have a BrakeSmart and absolutely love it. I haven't heard of anyone who owns a BrakeSmart who didn't love it. The only two downsides to a BrakeSmart are the cost and the backorder problem. They just can't keep up with the demand, even though the BrakeSmart is the most expensive controller available (that I've heard of).



It's about $350 for the complete system. As I recall, the controller is about $200 and the required wiring harness is about $150. If you want to use the controller on more than one vehicle, just buy a harness for the other vehicle and move the controller. This also allows you to keep the controller when you sell your truck.



The BrakeSmart taps into the brake hydraulic line to measure actual brake pressure in your truck. Don't worry; it doesn't interfere with the ABS or any other truck brake function. (I have four wheel ABS. ) It sends a trailer brake current that is proportional to the truck's braking. You almost can't tell you are towing a trailer, it's so good.



The BrakeSmart will control 1-4 axles (2-8 brakes) and gain can be adjusted for an empty flatbed or a loaded fifth-wheel. I have played with gain adjustments and haven't found it necessary to do it.



Their customer service and warranty are top-notch. My first controller had problems, and BrakeSmart worked with me until the problems were fixed. They sent a replacement via overnight express and didn't require the original unit back until I one that worked. By the way, the problem I had has been fixed in newer versions.



To be sure you don't have any problems with the controller, I recommend towing your trailer for a short trip before planning any vacation to be sure that your controller works properly. This is probably good advice for any modification, including wiring or hitch.



You will not be disappointed with a BrakeSmart, and you'll recover from the expense long before you sell your truck. I don't work for BrakeSmart.



Loren

 

[SandyHelton]

Brakesmart is a very good choice. It has worked flawlesly for me for over 10,000 miles so far. I know others have had a lot more experience than mine. The installation is very striaghtforward.

 

[abdiver]

I have been waiting for a Brakesmart for over 3months I am on the waiting list. I emailed the owner (steve) as as per his previous reply to me they should be back in production. But NO answer to my last email sent 2wks ago. I wonder what is up.



Still waiting

Bill

 

[Robin]

I have used about all the controllers available over the years. What I like about the Jordan is that three things are adjustable. !. The amount of braking force which is controlled by a knob on the front of the controller. 2. The rate of application which is adjustable by sliding a clamp up or down on the brake pedal arm. 3. The start of application by adjusting the length of the actuating cable. I have mine set so that the trailer brakes (three axle Newmar London Aire) come on slightly before the truck brakes.



Inertia controllers cannot do No. 3. They depend on always pushing the tow vehicle to some extent. Even the Brakesmart has to have some hydraulic pressure to occur before the trailer brakes will apply.