Troubleshooting Draw-Tite # 5100 Brake Controller Setup for Towing in Traffic and Smooth Braking

Expert Reply:

The Draw-Tite 2-4 Brake Electronic Brake Controller, item # 5100, is a time delayed brake controller and needs to be adjusted for braking power and delay. When the controller is adjusted correctly the brake controller will apply the trailer brakes shortly after the vehicle brakes are applied and will apply the brakes as hard as the setting is dialed up to. The problems you are experiencing are due to the style of controller and setup. Time delayed brake controllers brake the same exact amount they are set to every time you put on the brakes whether on the highway or around town in traffic.

A proportional brake controller is a much more seamless system for trailer braking. The proportional controller has an internal accelerometer that senses how fast the vehicle is stopping and applies the trailer brakes, up to your pre-determined setting, in proportion to the speed in which the vehicle is slowing. This eliminates the grabby braking need to constantly adjust the controller for traffic conditions. The only time you need to adjust a proportional controller is when the trailer changes, the load changes or the road conditions change significantly.

I would recommend the Tekonsha PRODIGY Proportional Brake Controller, item # 90185, for your situation. You will be surprised at the difference in braking when towing with this brake controller, once you have it setup properly.

Instructions are linked below and a video for you to review. If you would like to let me know the year, make and model of your tow vehicle I will be glad to help with any wiring you may need for installation.

expert reply by: Bob G