Brake Controllers

The combined weight of a tow vehicle and trailer is too great for the brakes on the tow vehicle alone to bring to a safe stop, which is why most trailers come with brakes. In most states trailers with a GTW (Gross Trailer Weight) of 3,000 lbs. or more are required to have brakes. But in addition to the trailer brakes a brake controller is needed to ensure the tow rig and trailer come to a controllable stop. We offer both time-based, and inertia-based, also called proportional, controllers that can control 2 to 8 trailer brakes.

Trailer brakes are typically drum brakes with the shoes actuated by electromagnets. The brake controller modulates the electric signal to the electromagnets. When electric current is applied, the magnet is attracted to the face of the drum, which causes it to rotate. As it rotates, the magnet moves an actuating lever that forces the brake shoes against the drum. The electric signal must be regulated by the brake controller so the brakes activate at the proper time and apply the right amount of pressure.

A brake controller mounts inside the cabin of the tow vehicle. Time-based brake controllers actuate the trailer brakes when you step on the brake pedal and apply gradually increasing voltage for more brake pressure the longer your foot is on the brake. The braking force and rate at which that force is applied is preset and can be adjusted. There is usually an LED or digital display on the controller to monitor brake pressure. Time-based controllers are less expensive but not as smooth as inertia-based controllers, and because the force and application rate are preset too little or too much brake force may be applied in some situations. However, because they don’t have to sense vehicle stopping motion they are easier to install.

Traditional inertia-based brake controllers contain a pendulum circuit inside that senses the vehicle’s stopping motion and applies proportional voltage to the trailer brakes, for a smooth stop. Premium inertia-based brake controllers use an accelerometer motion sensor rather than a pendulum, which can detect vehicle motion more accurately for increased braking precision. Because braking force and rate are dependent on tow vehicle deceleration, inertia-based controllers can more accurately adapt to situations, such as when you slam on the brakes in a panic stop. They can also sense when you’re going downhill and adjust brake force accordingly. Mounting angle is more critical during installation for inertia-based controllers.

We offer brake controllers that are compatible with anti-lock braking systems and cruise control. All brake controllers have a manual override feature that allows you to apply braking force to the trailer only if the trailer starts to sway, such as when high winds are encountered or if you’re being passed by a large vehicle like a truck or bus. Most newer trucks and SUVs have a plug in the wiring harness where a brake controller can be connected, particularly if the truck came with a Class III or better receiver hitch. However, we also offer brake controller adapter harnesses. We also have controller mounting brackets, testers and connectors as well as replacement parts for OE brake controller systems.