How to Choose a Brake Controller

Updated March 29, 2016 by Partsengine Canada

Partsengine offers a wide collection of brake controllers from Curt manufacturing, Draw-tite activator, Reese Brakeman compact to the world-famous Tekonsha Brake controllers. Look no further and talk to our towing expert for the brake controller for your needs.

A brake controller allows you to control your trailer’s electric brakes from the cab of your towing vehicle. It allows you to activate the trailer brakes in sync with your vehicle’s brakes as well as to apply the trailer brakes manually in case of emergency. There are two main types of brake controllers: time-activated and proportionally activated.

Time-activated brake controllers measure the amount of time the driver’s foot is on the brake pedal and applies the trailer brakes accordingly. The longer the brake pedal is pressed, the stronger the signal to the trailer brakes. This option requires minimal set up and cost, ideal for the driver who only tows occasionally or is only towing a light trailer.

See Time-activated Brake Controllers

Proportionally-activated brake controllers use accelerometers to measure the change in velocity of the towing vehicle and apply the trailer brakes in proportion. They provide a smoother, quicker braking performance than time-activated controllers as well as lowering the wear on the trailer’s brakes. They do require more calibration however, and are typically more expensive. Proportionally-activated brake controllers are the choice for people who wish to tow heavy trailers or are towing frequently.

See Proportional Brake Controllers

Why you need Breakaway Systems

In the unlikely but dangerous case that your trailer becomes loose and disconnects, a breakaway system will apply the trailer brakes the moment the trailer becomes unhitched. This safety system is required by law in many provinces. Even if not required by law in your province, breakaway systems are a great addition to any towing set up to give peace of mind while towing that your trailer is safe.

See Trailer Breakaway System