Comparing the Curt Spectrum Brake Controller to Redarc Tow-Pro Elite

Updated 05/19/2020 | Published 08/18/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller - Dash Mounted Knob - Up to 4 Axles - Proportional

(391)

$259.95

Curt Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers - Dual Plug In

(65)

$13.95

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Off-Road Mode - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(1644)

$250.00

Question:

I’m interested in purchasing the Curtis spectrum controller for my 2015 Toyota Tundra. I know it’s a new product however I can’t find any reviews on this product no where. How is this product compared to other controllers

asked by: Nick

Expert Reply:

By all accounts the Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller # C51170 works well and is easy to use and install on most vehicles. It is a brand new item so not a lot of feedback has come in on it. I did learn a few things though after speaking with our install team about this controller.

First, compared to the Redarc controller # RED44FR, the Curt Spectrum is easier to install. It can be surface mounted meaning that drilling is not necessarily required (depends on how you run the wiring). The Redarc controller has a knob that is fairly deep and drilling is required to properly install it.

However, the Curt knob is really big in comparison and you may have some difficulty locating a good place for it compared to the much smaller (in diameter) Redarc knob. The Redarc controller is more aesthetically pleasing in my opinion. There are numerous reviews on it if you wish to check it out.

If you decide to go with the Curt controller then for installation you will also need pigtail # C51455. If you go with the Redarc controller you will need pigtail # 3031-S. These harnesses allow you to plug in the controllers directly to your 2015 Tundra.

expert reply by: Michael H

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Don K.

5/16/2020

I was considering the Curt Spectrum or the Redarc Tow Pro Elite for my 2014 Ford Escape. My question is, does the dash-mount knob need to be installed in a location where it can be observed and manipulated while driving? There are few good locations for the knob on the Escape, but the better locations are where it can be reached but would be completely obscured visually by the steering wheel “spokes”.

Chris R.

5/19/2020

As long as you know where it is and can accurately reach for it in a pinch to push down the manual override, seeing the knob for the Redarc Tow Pro Elite # RED44FR isn't absolutely vital for everyday towing. It does display different light colors for various settings and when troubleshooting issues come up, and the knob can be adjusted for power - but those can also be handled when you're parked and in a better position to actually look at it, etc. If space is really limited, another good option is the Curt Echo # C51180, which just connects to your smart phone so you don't have to mount anything int he cab.