jerky1280

I recently bought an '01 2500 4x4 sport to tow horses (bumper pull). Just wondering exactely what brake controllers do, and if I need one. My truck has the little hookup for a brake controller under the driver's knee.

smokindog

The brake controller does just that, controls the trailer brakes. Cheap ones are around $80 and fancier models can get into the $200 range.

jerky1280

So...now the dumb question...do the trailer brakes work without one?

Jeff in TD

No, the trailer brakes don't work without one.

My advice would be to get a better one (Jordan, or Brakesmart).

I started with a cheaper time delay type, and upgraded later. Would have been cheaper to just start with a decent one.

jerky1280

Been looking around, found a bunch of threads. I'll be buying one before I take a long trip! Thanks for the info.

Dave88LX

Check out the Tekonsha Prodigy, it was highly reccomended on an RV forum, that's the one I went with, around $150. Nice that it doesn't have to be leveled.

RustyJC

Over the years (too many!) I've used ramped time-based and inertial controllers (such as the Tekonsha Voyager and Prodigy). I would highly recommend a truly proportional controller such as the Brakesmart or Jordan Ultima 2020. With these controllers, the trailer braking is directly proportional to the pressure you apply to the truck's brake pedal. Not so with the others!

The Brakesmart is the most technologically sophisticated controller, but it's pricey and hard to get (continued manufacturing and shipping delays). The Jordan, on the other hand, can be found on the Internet for less than $100.

Rusty

OTR PU

I second the BrakeSmart, and I've used several different types over the years. However, I tow all day everyday. If it cost double it would be worth it to me. When I was a weekender I used the Prodigy I carry for a spare now. . .and have used it.

Cheers,
Steve J

P.J

I have the Tekonsha Voyager (came with the truck) sounds as if it is a cheapo, but it does the trick. When you tow every once in a while (once or twice a month) the name of the game is to not let the trailer push the truck around. (IMO)
In other words, if your future plans are to get a big 5er or gooseneck equipment hauler, you may wnat to cough up the additional hundred and fifty bucks or so. If not, get the $80.00 to $100.00 job and be satisfied like myself.
Simple matter of what you are going to expect the thing to do.They ALL apply the electric brakes and are a MUST if you are going to pull live animals and prefer they stay alive for the duration.

jerky1280

I'll be towing two horses maybe once a month, and then a long trip every two years or so (military). I'm definitely going to get either an inertial or a proporsional controller. Thanks for all your advice.