Is a Brake Controller Necessary for Trailers with Electric Brakes?

Expert Reply:

If your trailer has electric brakes and you want them to properly actuate, you will need a brake controller. The brake controller is tied into the circuit for the brake stoplight switch, which tells the trailer brakes when, and with how much force to actuate. I would recommend a proportional controller. A proportional brake controller has an internal sensor that can tell how quickly the tow vehicle is stopping, and will send the appropriate amount of braking force so that the trailer stops at the same rate as the tow vehicle. I would recommend either the Tekonsha Prodigy or the Valley Odyssey. The Prodigy is a bit less expensive than the Odyssey, but is a bit more particular about how it is oriented when it is installed. Both controllers are outstanding units that are easy to use and set up, either would work great for you.

expert reply by: Mike L