Videos are provided as a guide only. Refer to manufacturer
installation instructions and specs for complete information.
Rating: 
61 reviews
Code: TK90160
Retail:$107.91
Price:$94.95
Shipping Weight: 1.5 pounds
Shipping Special
Proportional brake controller automatically levels when mounted within a 70-degree vertical range. Includes digital display, 3 boost levels, battery protection and continuous diagnostics. Easily transfer between different automobiles.
Features:
Specs:
With a proportional brake controller, you can get heavy-duty emergency braking, general braking or slow-to-an-idle braking for your trailer automatically. The intensity with which your trailer brakes are activated and the rate at which they are applied are dependent on the deceleration of your tow vehicle. This means that, unlike time-delay controllers - which send the same amount of preset power to your trailer brakes every time - proportional controllers are able to adapt to every braking situation differently. So, if you slam on the brakes in your truck, your trailer brakes will activate with that same extreme intensity. And if you merely slow down as you approach a red light, your trailer will gradually brake in the same manner. Just set the initial power level, select a boost setting, and you're good to go.
As long as the Primus IQ controller is properly mounted and is pointed in the direction of travel, it will sense - via an internal inertia sensor - how your tow vehicle brakes. This inertia-based sensor responds to the deceleration of your tow vehicle as you brake by signaling the controller to send out enough power to your trailer brakes so that they are activated with an intensity that matches. The result is uniform braking across your towing setup. No push-pull action - just smooth, proportional braking every time.
Aside from smoother, more efficient braking, Tekonsha's Primus IQ brake controller also offers a boost feature that gives you more initial braking power for those times when you're towing heavy loads. You can switch boost levels so that the power output to your trailer brakes automatically starts out at either 13 percent or 25 percent of the predetermined power setting.
So, if you boost the initial power so that your trailer brakes activate with 25 percent of the overall intensity at the start, the brakes will reach maximum braking faster. This is particularly beneficial if you are towing a heavy load because the intensity required to stop that load may be far greater than that needed to halt your vehicle. Therefore, sending out more initial power to the trailer brakes - and causing them to reach maximum braking faster - allows you to better control the trailer so that it doesn't push your tow vehicle before coming to a complete stop.
If your trailer weighs less than your tow vehicle, no boost is needed. But if you wish to set the boost so that your trailer leads the braking of your towing setup, you can select level B1. The following table gives an indication of when you might use the different boost levels and the power increases that they offer.
| Approximate Gross Trailer Weight | Boost Level | Increase in Initial Power Output |
|---|---|---|
| Less than tow vehicle GVW | B1 | 13% |
| Equal to tow vehicle GVW | B1 or B2 | 13% or 25% |
| Up to 25% more than tow vehicle GVW | B2 or B3* | 25% |
| Up to 40% more than tow vehicle GVW | B3* | 25% |
*Both B2 and B3 offer a 25-percent boost in initial power. But the braking curve for B3 is more aggressive than that of B2. This means that, even though you will start out with the same intensity when using these boost levels, you will get an overall more aggressive braking experience with the higher level. So if you use B3, you will reach maximum braking sooner than if you use B2.
Safety Features
The Primus IQ offers advanced safety features to prevent damage to various components of your towing setup. For example, when it is not in use, this brake controller will be in power-saving mode. In this setting, the power draw falls to minimize drain on your vehicle's battery.
When you stop at red lights, or any time that your truck and trailer are at a standstill with the brakes applied for more than 5 seconds, the Primus IQ's "hold" feature will activate. When this happens, the power output to your trailer's brakes will be reduced to just 25 percent of the preset power setting so that the brakes will not overheat.
If ever there is a time that you need to brake your trailer separately from your tow vehicle - when traveling down a steep incline, for example - the manual override is easily accessible. Pushing this slide bar engages the brakes on your trailer with full power. In addition, when you activate this override, the brake lights on your trailer will illuminate, properly warning those behind you of the braking action of your rig.
In addition to all of those safety features listed above, the Primus IQ offers diagnostics such as:
The self-leveling feature of the Primus IQ ensures that the brake controller continues to function even as you drive up steep hills or through the mountains. Simply mount it in your cab at a vertical angle that is between 0 degrees (level) and 70 degrees, and the controller will level itself automatically.
Note: The Primus IQ must be mounted on a level horizontal (side-to-side) plane and must be lined up with the direction of travel for the internal sensor to function properly.
Installation is a snap. After mounting the Primus IQ unit in your cab using the included bracket, hardwire one end of the included pigtail harness directly into your vehicle. The other end plugs into the brake controller. To transfer the Primus IQ to another vehicle or to remove it for storage, just unplug the unit and snap it out of the bracket.
Installation Accessories
For even easier installation, a vehicle-specific wiring adapter (sold separately) is available for most newer trucks and SUVs. One end of the custom adapter plugs into your vehicle, and the other end plugs into the controller - no hardwiring required.
Note: If a custom brake-control wiring adapter is not available for your vehicle, one of the following will be required:
20-Amp circuit breaker (9506P - sold separately) for 2- to 4-brake applications
30-Amp circuit breaker (38630 - sold separately) for 6- to 8-brake applications
See also etrailer.com's exclusive 7- and 4-way brake-control installation kit (ETBC7 - sold separately) if you don't already have a 7-way plug at the back of your vehicle.
Video of Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 3 Axles - Proportional
Videos are provided as a guide only. Refer to manufacturer
installation instructions and specs for complete information.
Today on this 2011 Chevy Silverado, were gonna install the Tekonsha PRIMUS IQ Brake Controller part number 90160.Our first step is to identify the manufacturers wires that we need to make our connection as seen here under the dash that theyve taped up. Im gonna go ahead and cut that connection and pull them free.The manufacturer has five wires here. Were actually only going to use four of them. The orange one will not be used. The red wire with the black stripe, were gonna match it up with our black wire that goes to the pigtail that well connect with our brake controller. Ill go ahead and make that connection now.The red wire with the black stripe is gonna be our power.
Ill go ahead and put my butt connector on there. Dark blue is the auxiliary power that sends the brake signal back to our 7-pole connector. Lets go ahead and put our connector on there also. Next, we have a blue wire with the white stripe brake switch signal thatll trigger our brake controller. And the fourth one that well use is the white wire, this will be our ground wire and well match up color for color with our 4-Pole connector thatll run directly into the back of our brake controller.Lets go ahead and take our brake controller in.
You see the four wires coming out of the connector for the brake controller and well make our connections with our butt connector we just installed. Our white wires will go color for color. The red wire on our 4-Pole connector is the break signal switch, so we will connect to the blue wire with a white tracer. Our red wire from the manufacturer side connect with the black wire. Dark blue for dark blue in the manufacturer for our 4-Pole connector.Now Im gonna go ahead and take some black electrical tape and wrap up my wires and well roll them up a little bit and go to mounting our brake controller.Now were gonna go ahead and set our mounting bracket for our brake controller.
With my brake controller mount in, we can go ahead and make our connection with the brake control connector here, and set our brake controller in the mount.Now Im gonna take a couple of zip ties, were gonna roll our wires up, wrap them up and tuck them nicely up underneath the dash.Next, were gonna get underneath the hood and were gonna remove the fuse panel box cover. Over hear between the fuse box and fender is the red wire tape to one of the main harness that is coming in to the fuse box. You need to cut the wire free and route it over here to one of the terminals. Lets go ahead and do that now.Now we got our wire free, well run it over here to the large post, well go ahead and install a nut. This red wire will send the power directly to our brake controller.Now weve got another wire that we can route.
Itll send the 12-volt feed back to our 7-Pole connector at the back of the truck. That wire is located down here underneath the brake master cylinder and booster. Just see some of the red wires sticking out around what has been taped up off to the main wiring harness. Go ahead and cut it free and pull it to the fuse box also. This one, as you can see, is a much smaller diameter end, well put that in the smaller terminal on our fuse box. Im gonna install a nut and then well go ahead and tighten them both down.Now we got everything tightened down, Im just gonna take some black zip ties and secure our wires. Now we can go ahead and reinstall the cover.With all wires connected and our cover reinstalled, that completes the installation of our Tekonsha PRIMUS IQ Brake Controller on our 2011 Chevy Silverado.
Customers Who Purchased This Brake Controller Also Bought...
Average Customer Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars (61 Customer Reviews)
by: Chuck Q01/22/2013
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I appreciate the help and patience your technical personnel gave to me on installing the Primus brake controller in my GMC Sierra. I called twice (my fault) and both were very friendly and helpful. I will definitely shop from your company in the future.63878
by: Jon M10/08/2012
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This product was extremely easy to install - with multiple options. The only thing missing was the electrical connectors, but I'm not sure if they were supposed to be a part of the package or not. I really like the fact that I can snap the controller in or out of the vehicle. The product also performed great the first time out.56775
by: Todd G07/03/2012
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Plug and play is a true definition. My family was bugging me to go boating this last weekend and being the procrastinator that I am I had not yet installed a brake contoller on my 2011 Ram yet. Got the controller and Harness in the mail on Saturday after only 3 days since order was placed. The install took 10 minutes max including the bracket install and away we went to the River. Thanks etrailer!!!!! Would have never heard the end of it from my 14 year old daughter if we would not have made it boating!!!!!46597
by: mj08/15/2010
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great controler works perfect all the time3355
by: Glenn04/12/2013
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This is the second controller I have purchased and as usual it is superior quality.75609
by: Mike R04/02/2013
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I had one of these before and it worked well. Etrailer had a great price on it and when I needed to put one on a different vehicle I bought from them. I couldn't be happier.73894
by: Bradley03/11/2013
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I wire this up on my 2004 chevy colorado, mostly to pull my 5x10 7000 GVWR dump trailer. Got the wiring kit from etrailer as well and it was pretty simple to install with the diagram and directions they sent. Just make sure to ground your circuit breakers well. I'm very happy with the whole set up. I can hardly feel the trailer behind me when i break.70015
by: ed robaey08/24/2012
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great controller for elec brakes.would tell my friends that this controller works great.now i can monitor my braking on my trailer.also thanks for the disc thanks again52955
by: gary wallen05/04/2012
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Works very well, delivered on time and in good condition. Excellent service from e-trailer!39418
by: Tony M.04/19/2012
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I ordered this controller because I had used it in the past. Always worked well. Was happy with it and can't wait to install it in my next truck.37780
by: Jim G.04/25/2013
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I have this unit on another vehicle and it works excellently. Your wiring kit is very well put together and very customer friendly. Thanks.77798
by: Justin03/25/2013
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I will be installing this unit on a 2008 E450 Jayco Greyhawk Class C motorhome as soon as it comes out of storage. Have the same unit in my F150 that I use to tow a 25 foot Jayco Jay Flight trailer72384
by: David P.11/02/2012
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Product was a breeze to install. So impressed with ETrailers that have won my repeate business. Super fast shipping. It was shipped the same evening we placed the order and actually arrived a day ealier than scheduled. Only used the controller once but so far so good.58674
by: KJ08/25/2012
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Price was right and the service was great! Fast shipping and all the online information needed to help the installation go right. Thanks! Really like this brake controller and it worked great the first time. 52997
by: SHERRY M07/19/2012
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ORDERED ON FRIDAY AFTERNOON, ARRRIVED ON WEDNESDAY, FAST AND EASY TO ORDER. INSTALLATION WAS SIMPLE. 48467
by: Scott Y.05/21/2013
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Instructions were easy to follow and also fairly easy to install.81406
by: Martin N.05/21/2013
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Works great. Easy to install and setup. I have four different trailers and empty or loaded this controller brings the trailer to a smooth stop.81374
by: Michael R.05/19/2013
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Overall Excellence!!! 80967
by: Erik N.05/19/2013
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I bought this product after reading several reviews. I recently purchased a Fun Finder 189FBS Travel trailer, and I needed a Brake Controller that was proportionally controlled. After my first trip with my 2012 Rubicon/ Fun Finder; I am very pleased with my purchase. This controller works best for my setup, on the "b1" boost level. Setup and installation took less than 2 hours, and I did it myself. The instructions and reference video from etrailer.com were very helpful. I was quoted nearly $400 to install this controller from my local RV shop. I bought it hear, spent 2 hours, and saved $250. If you can crimp a wire, and run a drill- You can do this!80929
by: Secrest C.05/17/2013
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Simple to install and adjust. Great how to videos and very fast delivery. Used on a small RV toy hauler, never go cheap on brakes. Recommend-Yes80789
by: Morgan W.05/02/2013
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Easy installation, and product is Great! People were very helpful with questions. I would highly recommend this company.78657
by: Stanley L.05/01/2013
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I purchased the Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller and the wiring kit for my Toyota 4Runner. It was simple installation and the customer service was EXCELLENT! They sent me extra schematics I needed by email and was very supportive! I will definately do business with them in the future. 78575
by: James04/11/2013
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the installation of both of these products i. e. the Curt Hitch and the Tekonsha brake controller were dick and jane simple. i practicall had the hitch on before the ups man was out of the driveway75374
by: Patricia04/03/2013
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I am unable to correctly rate this product at this time because there is no Dodge 2013 harness with which I can attach it. If/when the harness becomes available (a year plus after the truck came out, of course), I will re-review the product. Note that lack of this harness is NOT the fault of eTrailer, but if you're purchasing this for a 2013 Dodge truck, you might want to wait.73972
I just purchased mine for my 2013 Ram Crew Cab 4x4, got it with the adapter for the truck installed in 15 minutes and works perfect. April 2013
comment by: Yvan - 4/20/2013
Thank you for the input. I am glad to hear they might be caught up.
Patrick B - 4/25/2013Tekonsha is currently slated to have the harnesses, 3023-P, available by the end of April 2013. There have been running changes to the 2013 Dodge Ram that have made harness availability particularly challenging.
Patrick B - 4/5/2013 by: Bryan01/21/2013
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I purchased the Primus brake controller after recently buying a 20 ft car hauler. The controller was a must due to the weight of the trailer and its cargo. The controller works great and the adjustment roller and turbo boost are fantastic and easily accessed. The installation only takes about 30 minutes too. Thanks Primus for a great product and thanks e-trailer for getting the product out to me so quickly.63657
by: Tom V.12/16/2012
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It took more time to unpack the box then it took to install the unit. Adjustment was quick and simple.61596
by: Colin Smith10/20/2012
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Great product super easy install works perfect, I own three now 57707
by: Russell F.09/24/2012
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Product works well - just as described. Thanks for the fast shipping!55588
by: Scott S09/20/2012
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Works very well in my 2012 Tundra. Worked first time. 55282
by: R B06/01/2012
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I recieved my order in 4days and the product was exactly what I expected.42339
by: Ken05/05/2012
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Fast shipping. 5 minutes to install. Could not be easier.39503
by: Tim S04/16/2012
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super easy install - bought the Nissan wiring adapter and it was literally plug-in and calibrate37324
by: Andy K.04/02/2012
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I cannot rate the Primus IQ controller yet as I have just received it.However, the instructions/disk are very clear and straight forward. What I can comment on is eTrailer.com. I don't think I have ever seen an online retailer with better customer service and online support (videos showing step by step installation instructions for almost every specific model truck) It took a real effort on eTrailer's part to provide this. Great job!35943
by: Mike03/12/2012
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First class product etrailer first class also33664
by: Heath Farmer02/27/2012
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I haven't had a chance to try it out yet, but the installation went very well, with the adapter that I purchased. 32660
by: Ron T02/24/2012
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Product work as promised setup was a sn ap32451
by: Tom P.02/05/2012
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Top quality, easy installation. Haven't used it yet, but will soon. From all that I have researched, this is a really good brake controller. Thanks.31106
by: brent veldhuizen01/20/2012
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Controller is great, and works very well. 30031
by: RJ12/22/2011
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Excellent product, easy to install and operate. Works as advertised!28524
by: Dan J12/14/2011
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Looks like just what the doc. ordered. Speed of shipment was fantastic. Great place to do business...thanks28112
by: G Lewis11/03/2011
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Install was very easy in my 2008 Chevy Silverado. Haven't purchased the trailer yet so I can't rate its operation, but I'm sure it will work just fine. A bit of advice for others installing this or any brake controller in a 2008 Silverado...the truck's light blue/white stripe wire had faded with age to a pale green. Don't let that confuse you.26493
by: Steve N07/18/2011
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This is our second one of theses. One in the MotorHome, one in the Suburban.. Very pleased!19675
by: Phil M.07/06/2011
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While I've just done some initial testing, the setup was straight forward and the operation very simple. I would recomend it highly.18638
by: James B07/01/2011
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I just got it installed so I haven't had much chance to use it, but its got TEKONSHA written on it! They have been building the best for many years.18349
by: BDC03/05/2011
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As Advertised, they filled order quickly and shipped it out.8524
by: Gary04/01/2013
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fast shipping, great price and a gud p roduct73720
by: Domenic03/27/2013
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Since I have the tow package, installation took 5 minutes. 2 screws for the mount and plug it in. Done!! If I didn't have a tow package, it would have probably taken 15 minutes! lol72848
by: Dennis03/02/2013
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Very easy to install very informative video Installed hitch controller and plug on 2012 GMC in under an hour. Took the time to have everything ready and staged.68475
by: Norman01/29/2013
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WORKS EXCELLENT GOOD PRICE FAST SHIPPING. NH64445
by: John G12/04/2012
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Great product, fast shipping. 60621
by: Doug M.10/05/2012
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While I have not had the chance to use it yet pulling my trailer I picked this particular unit because of the reviews it has received from people that have and are using it. I had it professionally installed and it is working as the instructions say it should. The company that installed it had nothing but good things to say about it as well. I especially want to thank Nicole for her help and customer service she provided to me and I can promise you that all my future trailer needs will be purchased from your company via Nicole. Big Thanks to all of you. 56414
by: Eric L.09/25/2012
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I purchased the brake controller for my 2008 Dodge RAM 1500, to pull my 28 foot travel trailer. Product installed easily and is straightforward. Customer service at etrailer.com was also EXCELLENT. I could not have asked for a better, more personal process.55813
by: Kevin G.09/11/2012
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Product works great, as advertised. The Tech at the RV dealer commented on the reliability of this brake controller, and the install literally took 15 minutes, start to finish. The supplied factory wiring harness made quick, simple work of the installation. The video on the etrailer website is right on the money as well. I have dealt with etrailer for all my towing needs since 1995, and they have never let me down. Great, quality products......quick delivery, and customer service that is second to none. There is no reason to shop anywhere else. Thanks etrailer.......you are the best!54172
by: Doug V.08/07/2012
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Purchased electric brake controller for our 2000 Toyota Tundra as we are pulling a large camper. Very easy to install and adjust for camper weight using boost feature. Very happy with Primus and with etrailer as they got the controller to us a day ahead of delivery date.50918
by: cory07/09/2012
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works great, the plug in harness made installation a breeze.47256
by: Cory D06/08/2012
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Install was easy 43274
by: Bruce K06/04/2012
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15 minute install 42687
by: jim03/21/2012
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easy install and lots of help online , looks good and works good.34577
by: Steve B.06/29/2012
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Shipping was upgraded at no extra cost. Arrived quickly, and worked perfectly. Very satisfied.46142
by: Darrell S.05/02/2012
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So far it works great. Very good instructions on setup and adjustments.39116
by: bill caylor08/03/2012
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Electronic trailer brake works great and extremely easy to install . Would also like to add Customer service was outstanding ! I needed my order shipped out the same day as ordered and Pat from customer service and Zachary in shipping made that happen . Thank you50386
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Installation Details
