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Tekonsha POD Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Time Delayed

Part Numbers: 39523

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Tekonsha POD Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Time Delayed
part number: 39523

This time-delayed brake controller is designed to mount at any angle, even upside down. The controls are all up front for easy access, including a slide-bar manual override and a thumbwheel for braking output. LED indicator shows your braking status.

Features:

  • Brake controller activates trailer brakes with preset intensity
  • Adjustable power output lets you select the amount of braking force
    • Simple thumbwheel lets you change setting
  • LED indicator on front of unit shows you your braking status
    • Green light indicates that brakes are connected
    • Color changes to orange and then to red as the power output increases
  • Slide-bar manual override is within easy reach for controlling trailer sway or stopping in emergencies
  • Quick and easy installation with no mounting restrictions - can be installed in any direction
    • Designed to be mounted upside down and still have a readable display
    • Mounting bracket and hardware included
    • Plug-in, vehicle-specific brake control adapter (sold separately) available for select vehicles to reduce installation time


Specs:

  • Application: trailers with up to 2 axles (4 brake assemblies)
    • Compatible with electric trailer brakes only
  • Dimensions: 5" long x 3" wide x 1-1/4" tall
  • Limited 5-year warranty


Easy-to-Access Brake Controller

Tekonsha POD Controls and Components

The Tekonsha POD is designed to mount in any direction, and it's especially suited for mounting on near-vertical dashes. All the controls are on the front of the module, so you can still access them with the controller tucked away in a convenient place.


Tekonsha POD review

Braking Output

Braking output is the maximum amount of power that will be applied to your trailer's brakes. How much braking output you need is determined by the weight of your trailer; a heavier trailer will need more power to bring it to a stop. You want to set the braking output as high as you can without locking up the brakes. Once you've set up the brake controller the first time, you shouldn't need to adjust the settings until the trailer load changes, you switch trailers, or road conditions change. Use the thumbwheel on the side to change the braking output level. The output setting will appear as a number on the digital display, with a higher number indicating higher braking power.


Manual Override

The Tekonsha POD keeps the manual override within easy reach on the front of the module, great for stopping sway or controlling your trailer's momentum in emergencies. Push the slide-bar lever to activate the trailer's brakes and brake lights without you having to apply the brakes on your tow vehicle, perfect for limiting trailer movement while you re cruising.


Quick, Simple Installation

Because inertia plays no role in the functioning of this controller, you do not have to mount the unit at any particular angle. Your mounting options are limitless, with the controller designed with all of the controls on the front of the module so you can access them even if it's mounted upside down.


If your vehicle already has a plug-in brake controller wiring harness, just connect the unit to it. Otherwise, you will need to purchase a vehicle-specific wiring harness (sold separately) to plug into. If a harness is unavailable for your vehicle, hardwiring will be necessary.


Installation Accessories

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.


Note: If a custom brake control wiring adapter is not available for your vehicle, a 20-amp circuit breaker (sold separately) may be required for installation.


Time-Delayed Braking

What is time-delayed braking

The Tekonsha POD comes equipped with time-delayed braking. Every time you apply the brakes in your vehicle, a signal is sent - via the brake switch - to the POD. The controller then sends power out to your trailer brakes to activate them with an intensity set by you, at a rate determined by you. The amount of braking power (output) can be adjusted to suit your preference, the road conditions, the type of trailer, and the weight of your load. To determine which levels are best for your application, test your towing setup and choose what feels right.



80500 Tekonsha PowerTrac Electric Brake Control - 1 to 2 Axles - Time Actuated

Item # 39523

California residents: click here

Product Expert Kathleen M

Is this right for you? Product Expert Kathleen M says:

Yes, if you:

  • Just need a basic controller that gets the job done
  • Have a hard time finding a spot to mount a controller in line with the direction of travel

No, if you:

  • Haul a trailer with more than 2 axles or one that has hydraulic brakes
  • Have issues with your trailer brakes locking up



Customer Satisfaction Score:


Customer Reviews

Tekonsha POD Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Time Delayed - 39523

Average Customer Rating:  4.8 out of 5 stars   (1169 Customer Reviews)

This time-delayed brake controller is designed to mount at any angle, even upside down. The controls are all up front for easy access, including a slide-bar manual override and a thumbwheel for braking output. LED indicator shows your braking status.

by: Tom05/21/2021

Worked out perfectly for me, super easy installation with adapter harness. Work's flawlessly, easy one hand gain control with control's on front. My truck had nice cubby it fit in so out of the way and seamless look. Thanks for a great product and service.


Comments
Working great, very easy to use and adjust. Would recommend again.
Tom - 06/14/2022
Always dependable.
-- comment by: John d - 07/24/2022


by: Arthur01/15/2023

Actually, I haven’t used it. I have an original Tekonsha that I have used for about 16 years with 3 previous cars and trailers and it is still working fine. It gives me much more information about the operation of the trailer brakes than the model I purchased from you. Since that controller is very old and yours was not very expensive, I decided to keep it as an emergency spare. Thanks for Checking,




by: Steve 01/12/2023

Great must have piece of equipment works perfectly very sensitive recommended to anyone that is looking for a break controller.




by: jim a06/09/2015

We have a Honda Ridgeline and needed this for our camper trailer. It was nice ordering the specific plug in wire for the Ridgeline and therefore eliminating hard wiring, just plugged it in. It was rough getting to the factory plug under the dash by the emergency brake petal switch. My hands are not small enough, ha ha. But success was had. Plugged into the controller and mounted it and u-wall-a. It works the way it is suppose to, I like that. A good quality unit that does what it is suppose to. thanks.


Comments
After a year, I dont even think about it being there. I love that. It works the way it should. When traveling with our trailer, I might adjust the controller slightly but that is it. . . .thanks etrailer and Tekonsha for such great products and service. . .you rock. . . .jim
jim a - 06/08/2016


by: Mike06/26/2013

I have a Toyota Tacoma (06). I had the controller installed in less than five minutes. One minute to gather the tools: drill/bits, screw driver, and tape. I thought tape would be helpful to hold the ground screw to the driver given the tight are under the dash. One minute to drill the ground hole. One minute to install the ground screw. One minute to plug in the cables and fish the wire under the stirring wheel to allow for the controller to be mounted in the storage area found on Tacoma trucks dash. I guess I was wrong. It only took four minutes. I did not need to put the tools away I was off to do other projects. I rate the product as good because I have not tried it on the trailer yet.


Comments
Today I used the controller out on the road, it worked great. Now I give the product a SIX star rating. Its better than a five star rating because of the reasonable price and installation of the product. Good job etrailer. Mike from Santa Fe.
-- comment by: Mike L - 06/29/2013



by: Alan03/02/2023

I received the receiver but not the controller or harness. I'm sure it must have been stolen when in transit as the box appeared it had been opened. When I called etrailer they was sorry and they would refund my money. I had excellent service from them




by: Rolando Torres07/11/2013

Easy to install in my Toyota-Tacoma 2012. I pull my Travel Trailer and this break controller worked very well and with just a little bit adjustment. Also this item was shipped very fast.


Comments
I just installed this on my 2010 Tacoma, which was very easy. I hooked up a new trailer and I noticed right a way the brakes seem to pulse. You can see the LED flicker between red and green that appears to be synced with the brake pulsing. Does yours behave similarly? This is my first trailer and brake controller so Im not sure if its normal or not.
-- comment by: Quincy - 04/02/2014

Now after one year Im using the same brake controler in my new Tundra and still working very well.
Rolando T - 01/09/2015


by: Mike 09/17/2022

Simple product worked great for what I needed it to do. The wiring was great no cutting at all simple plug and play.




by: Beck05/28/2022

One year later I'm extremely pleased with this purchase. I often chuckle when I see stock hitches and the whole thing is visible while mine is neatly tucked under with everything hidden except for the 2" receiver. 10/10 have recommended etrailer on many occasions to friends and family for their service and know-how. Since installing my hitch I towed a pop up camper 1500+kms and do frequent trips to the dump or my local dirt and gravel yard for supplies. Love it!




by: Steven K.06/05/2018

Thanks to etrailer’s video “Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee”, the installation of a Tekonsha PowerTrac controller on my 2003 Jeep was very straight forward (and I’m not a car guy!). Like in the video, I used the wiring kit (#5506). I forgot to order a pigtail wiring harness but was able to pick one up locally. Took the trailer out last weekend and the brakes worked great.




by: David05/01/2022

MOUNTING BRACKET AND HARDWARE INCLUDED........NOT!!!!!! I DO NOT HAVE TIME FOR YOU TO SEND ME A BRACKET. I NEED IT NOW!!!! It came just loose thrown in the box with the other items. Every thing else is fine. I will be making my own bracket today and find me some screws to mount it with. AND YES I know it is a simple matter to make a bracket and find some screws, BUT, I should not have to. I am a bit short on time right now. Sorry for the rant,


Comments
I will have our Customer Service team reach out to you.
-- Etrailer Expert Jenny N - 05/04/2022


by: Jim02/20/2021

I really like the simplicity of this plug n play brake controller. I would give it 5 stars but it adjusts with a wheel/dial without any graduations on it so it’s hard to just set the gain without testing the brakes. That’s probably not really a bad thing but not as convenient as other controllers.


Comments
After a year were still going strong without any issues! It works great.
Jim - 02/22/2022


by: Bill G.06/04/2017

I received my purchase very quickly.
I
just installed the control and wire harness today. Installation was easy, all you need are basic hand tools and a drill with a small bit.
Haven't had chance to test it out yet but, when I do I'll update.


Comments
The controller works fine. It takes a second or so for them to activate and release which can take some getting use to. I am going to look into a different controller that reacts instantly with my vehicle brakes.
Bill G - 06/04/2018



by: John01/15/2021

We bought two. One for my sons truck and mine. This is an entry level price controller for a trailer we built with parts from etrailer. Considering the price point of this item quality was great and has worked well for us.


Comments
My son and I have used this brake controller more than I thought we would. For being entry level it has worked flawlessly. Have had no problems at all.
John - 01/15/2022


by: Tim B.05/10/2013

The control works great. Nice incremental application of wheel from nothing to hard on! Led light goes from green to red also in incremental degrees. Installation was a snap in my 2008 F150 with tow package. Just Plug in the control clip and the other end in the terminal above and to the right of the computer check terminal. Rather than have it below my dash I opted for the cove below the lighter. Etrailer did a nice job of getting out to me right away and kept me informed where this was at all the way to my door. Good Job!




by: Brannon08/31/2020

Outstanding process of searching, purchasing and installing!


Comments
Still working great!! It has helped out so much that I cant even believe I drove without it a couple times.
Brannon - 08/31/2021


by: JM07/04/2016

Product arrived quickly and installed very easily. Plug and play with the correct adapter (3035-P Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - Ford, Lincoln, Mercury) for a 2001 Ford F-150. Controller is very easy to set the braking on your trailer.




by: Jon W.05/15/2017

I ordered the powertrac with the 22292, 2011 ford F150 wiring adapter, It works great. 15 mins, and I had everything ready to go. It is a little sensitive to adjust but ones you get the feel for it, it takes no time to adjust. very happy with this unit, I would recommend this unit to everyone.




by: Greg02/24/2023

This controller worked great in my 2018 GMC Canyon. Easy to install, fast service and fast shipping




by: Rick08/25/2018

Installed on 2003 Toyota Tundra with the factory tow package. Installation was a breeze with the included vehicle specific wiring adapter. It took me about 45 minutes total. Looks professionally installed. Easy to use. Set the adjustment for your specific trailer and go!




by: Dwight03/09/2023

Product had great reviews. Plan on using it for our camper.cant wait for warmer weather to try it out.easy instructions.




by: Titus T.03/05/2017

Didn't take long to get once I ordered it. Very easy to install. I used the video to help with the install. Can't wait to start camping. Would definitely use etrailer.com again and will recommend it to friends and family.




by: Michael05/01/2018

Super easy install just plugged in and bolt down the controller works great


Comments
Excellent does exactly what it is supposed to do
Michael - 05/01/2019


by: John01/28/2023

Very good company. Very good quality products, easy to purchase from very fast shipping. They explain very clearly about the product so buying the right part is made easy.




by: Jack05/14/2021

The trailer brake was extremely easy to install, it was pretty much plug and play, then all I had to do was to set the tension once and off I go, it’s great.


Comments
Great, I’ve since sold that truck and purchased another, and bought yet another electric brake system from you, they are easy to install and to operate, thanks for a great product.
Jack N - 05/16/2022

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Ask the Experts about this Trailer Brake Controller
Do you have a question about this Trailer Brake Controller?


  • Troubleshooting Brake Controller LED Lights On Tekonsha POD PowerTrac
  • On your Tekonsha PowerTrac Electronic Brake Controller (POD) # 39523, the green light when connected is good and functioning correctly. The LED changing from Green to Red when you hit the brake pedal is functioning properly as well as it should be red when you apply the pedal. If it is alternating from Green to Red, one of two issues and both have to do with the power adjustment setting on your brake controller. The light changing indicates your setting is either too high and needs
    view full answer...

  • Recommended Brake Controller for a 2019 Chevy Silverado
  • For your 2019 Chevy Silverado 3500, I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller - Proportional item # RED24FR. This brake controller has a unique installation method where you can mount the control knob on your dash or console and hide the main unit out of sight. It is perfect for occasional towing as you do not have to worry about banging your knee on a bulky brake controller. This is a proportional brake controller that automatically adjusts your trailer's braking based on
    view full answer...

  • LED on Tekonsha 39523 POD Brake Controller Doesn't Illuminate When Trailer Isn't Connected
  • It is normal for the LED on the # 39523 POD brake controller not to be illuminated when a trailer isn't plugged in. The light will be: • GREEN when trailer is connected • RED when brake pedal or manual is activated and trailer is connected. • Flashing RED or OFF when trailer is not connected. Your controller is working normally. I've linked to the owner's manual for the # 39523 brake controller as well as to a video that explains how it works.
    view full answer...

  • Parts Needed to Add Brake Controller to 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon with Factory 4 Way
  • Looks like you've got this all figured out. The Universal Installation Kit, # ETBC7, that you mentioned does include the wiring and accessories required to install a trailer brake controller in your 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited which is already equipped with a 4 way. As for the brake controller, yes, the Tekonsha PowerTrac Electronic Brake Controller, # 39523, will work for you. This easy-to-use brake controller activates your trailer brakes electronically when you engage the brakes
    view full answer...

  • Best Tekonsha Brake Controller for 2007 Toyota Tundra
  • The main difference between a time delayed brake controller like the Tekonsha PowerTrac # 39523 and a proportional brake controller like the Tekonsha P2 # 90885 is that a time delayed brake controller has no internal parts that sense the braking of the tow vehicle; for this reason they can be mounted on any angle. Proportional brake controllers have internal mechanisms that sense the braking of the tow vehicle and provide a smoother braking compared to a time delayed controller. The
    view full answer...

  • What is Needed to Install Brake Controller on 2012 Jeep Liberty?
  • When installing the Tekonsha PowerTrac # 39523 brake controller in your 2012 Jeep Liberty you will need Universal Installation Kit for Brake Controllers # ETBC7 as well as harness # 20127 because you will need to hard wire the ends of the harness directly into the vehicle; the other end of the harness will plug directly into your PowerTrac. I've added links to video reviews of each of these products for you to take a look at.
    view full answer...

  • How to Convert a Trailer with Surge Brakes to Electric Over Hydraulic Brakes
  • You can convert surge brakes to an electric over hydraulic braking system. To do this, you will need an electric over hydraulic actuator and a brake controller. For an electric over hydraulic actuator, I recommend looking at the Carlisle HydraStar units. If your trailer has drum brakes, you will want part # HBA-10. If your trailer has disc brakes, then you will want part # HBA16. I have also attached a link to all of our electric over hydraulic actuators for you to check out your options. The
    view full answer...

  • Brake Controller Recommendation for 2012 Toyota 4Runner Pulling 2-Horse Trailer
  • Brake controllers come in two basic types, time-delayed units like the Tekonsha PowerTrac # 39523 that you referenced and proportional types like the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885. The proportional type are often preferred because they will help reduce wear on both the truck's and trailer's brakes. Also, the P2 works well with both electric and electric-over-hydraulic trailer brakes. The linked article explains in further detail. I recommend the P2 since it is among the most popular and reliable
    view full answer...

  • Troubleshooting Tekonsha POD Brake Controller
  • With a Reese Pod brake controller # 39523 that always has the red LED that never turns green, there are a couple things to consider. I recommend using a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to test functions starting with the red wire to your controller. You should only see power on that wire when you press the brake pedal. When the pedal is not pressed, there should be no power on that red wire. If there is, check your connection and the corresponding pin in the factory harness. Test the
    view full answer...

  • Need 7-Way Trailer Connector for 2013 Subaru Outback for Use with Trailer Brake Controller
  • In order to wire a 7-way trailer connector for use with a brake controller you will first need to have a working 4-pole trailer connector on your vehicle. We do offer custom plug-and-play 4-pole converter harnesses for your Outback wagon, both powered and non-powered types. If your trailer has only basic lighting and you do not intend to add any additional lights to it, then you can use non-powered converter # 118467 which is shown in the linked video. This plugs in to your R79 connector
    view full answer...

  • Should Light of Reese POD Brake Controller be On When Trailer isn't Connected
  • When no trailer is connected the light on brake controller # 39523 will either be flashing or off. If it is green all the time with no trailer connected that indicates a short to ground. This normally occurs when there is corrosion on the pins or where the wires attach on the trailer connector. The Reese Pod brake controller should be connected as follows. White - Ground Black - 12 Volt Constant Power Red - Cold Side of the Brake Pedal Switch Blue - Trailer Brake feed to Trailer
    view full answer...

  • What is the Difference Between a Time Delay Brake Controller and a Proportional Brake Controller
  • The Tekonsha PowerTrac brake controller # 39523 is a time delay brake controller. The other type of controller is a proportional controller. A time delay controller is so named because there is a delay between the time that you initially apply the brakes in your tow vehicle and the time that the controller reaches maximum power output. Unlike a proportional brake controller, which activates your trailer's brakes based on the deceleration of your tow vehicle, a time-delayed controller sends
    view full answer...

  • Will the PowerTrac Brake Controller Fit a 2016 Ford F-250
  • Brake controllers are not vehicle specific so you can use the PowerTrac # 39523 on your 2016 Ford F-250 to activate the electric brakes on your 5th wheel trailer. To plug the controller into the truck you will also need wiring harness # 3034-P. The PowerTrac is a time delay brake controller which means it will deliver the same amount of braking no matter how hard the tow vehicle is braking. It can be difficult to set time delay controllers just right and they can lead to more wear and
    view full answer...

  • How to Install a Brake Controller in a 2013 Toyota Tundra with Factory 7-Way
  • To install the Tekonsha PowerTrac Brake Controller part # 39523 in your 2013 Toyota Tundra with a factory 7-way all you need is the correct install harness, part # 3040-P. This plugs into the connector found near your parking brake. To see how a similar controller would install in a 2013 Toyota Tundra like yours check out the install video I attached.
    view full answer...

  • Brake Controller Installation and Recommendation for 2020 Subaru Outback
  • Even though you won't be using it frequently, I'd still recommend getting a proportional controller. A proportional controller will sense how quickly the tow vehicle is braking, and will send the proper amount of voltage to the trailer brakes so that the vehicle and the trialer brake at the same rate for safe, effective and predictable braking. The fact that you're not planning on using it very often makes me suspect that you might prefer not to have a traditional-type controller mounted
    view full answer...

  • Do Trailer Breakaway Systems Lock Up Trailer Brakes When Activated
  • A trailer breakaway system is designed to lock up the wheels of a trailer if the plunger is pulled. There would no way to actuate the braking power to go from slowing the trailer down to totally stopped so the systems are designed to provide full braking force. I attached a help article on trailer breakaway systems for you to check out as well.
    view full answer...

  • Does a Brake Controller Need to be Grounded to the Battery
  • If the manufacturer recommends to ground the Tekonsha PowerTrac Electronic Brake Controller part # 39523 to the negative side of the battery terminal then this is what you should obey. However, we have installed hundreds of brake controllers by grounding them to a bare metal surface and have not had any problems in doing so. There is really no difference between one or the other. Please keep in mind that in order to install the PowerTrac you will also need the Brake Control Plug-In
    view full answer...

  • No Green Light on Tekonsha PowerTrac Brake Controller 39523 When Trailer is Connected
  • First, confirm that there are no other items that generate radio frequency interference (RFI) mounted within one foot of the controller; items such as cell phones and CB radios can interfere with its operation and could affect the display. (Also, if you happen to have a breakaway switch on your trailer, take care that you do not ever test it with the trailer connected to the vehicle as this will damage the controller. Ensure it is wired correctly since reversed connections to the breakaway
    view full answer...

  • Location of Brake Controller Install Connector on 1994 Ford F250
  • If your truck is equipped with the factory 7-way or 4-pole trailer connector, then the brake controller install port will be present. It's usually located under the dash up and to the right of the diagnostic port. Look above and to the right of where your right knee would be if you were sitting in the driver's seat. If you have the factory 7-way, all you'll need to do is mount the controller, and plug in the # 3035-P wiring adapter, and you'll be set. If your truck has the factory 4-pole,
    view full answer...

  • Parts Needed to Install a Brake Controller in a 2015 Jeep Wrangler with 4-Way
  • From there you would need to convert the 4-way to a 7-way so that you can install the brake controller. For that you will want the Brake Controller Install Kit and 7-Way Adapter part # ETBC7. I attached installation instructions and an install video for this product as well. For a brake controller I would recommend the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885. This is our best selling brake controller because of how well it works and how easy it is to setup.
    view full answer...

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