How to Set Up a Hopkins Agility Brake Controller Part # HM47294

Expert Reply:

The proper settings are determined by a host of variables including trailer weight, size of trailer brakes, vehicle weight, size of vehicle brakes, and cargo inside vehicle. You can get started by follwoing the Setting Your Controller portion of the directions. If you do not have a copy of the directions, I have added a link to them below.

In order to set up your brake controller, you need to connect the loaded trailer to the vehicle, and drive to a large open area, like an empty parking lot, and set up your controller with a full load.

Your controller has 5 sensitivity settings, 1-5, 5 being the most sensitive. This adjusts how the brake controller reacts to your foot on the brake pedal. Your controller also has adjustable power settings that range from 5-99 percent in 5 percent increments. This adjusts how much power is sent to the trailer brakes, the more power that is sent, the harder the brakes engage.

Start with a sensitivity setting of 3 and power setting of 25 percent. Start moving at low speed, 20-25 mph, and press the foot brake aggressively. If the trailer brakes lock up, reduce the power. If it feels as though the trailer is pushing the vehicle, increase brake power. Adjust the sensitivity to your driving style. You want the trailer brakes to be firm and smooth.

When the trailer is empty, you will have to reduce your power settings. Anytime you have a significant change in payload weight, you will need to adjust your power and sensitivity settings.

If you find any of this confusing, take a look at the instructions that came with your Agility brake controller. The last two sections in the instructions cover how to set up the controller. I have included a link to the instructions.

expert reply by: Patrick B