Does Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Trailer Brake Controller Have to Draw Power from Battery
Updated 08/10/2026 | Published 10/31/2017
Question:
Hi I am looking at the redarc tow pro elite brake controller. Can this be connected to a 12v source instead of the car battery? Are there any downfalls to doing this? Thanks
asked by: Heather
Expert Reply:
When powering a brake controller like the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Trailer Brake Controller # RED44FR you have to power it directly from the vehicle battery. Mainly because it would prevent the controller from shorting out any of your vehicle's power circuit in the event of a short, but also because none of the aux power sources are going to be rated high enough for the amperage load of a brake controller.
I attached a help article on installing brake controllers plus a diagram for you to check out as well.
Asa B.
8/7/2026
I see the diagram specifies an auto-reset circuit breaker. Is there any reason not to power this through an ignition switched relay and fuse?
Jameson C.
8/10/2026
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Off-Road Mode - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Splice-In
- Dash-Mounted Knob
- Behind-Dash
- Up to 3 Axles
- Indicator Lights
- Single Trailer Only
- Redarc
more information >
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Mike
4/23/2025
I have the redarc pro elite and I'm installing it in 1996 GMC Suburban now my truck has a 30 amp auxiliary power pole where you could install a brake controller is this a good a direct to battery? Most other controllers say to use this for the install.