Do Stehl Tow Dollies Require a Brake Controller to Activate the Electric Brakes

Published 11/17/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(1769)

$279.95

Hopkins Engager Trailer Breakaway Kit w/ Charger, LED Tester, and 5 Ah Battery - Side Load

(746)

$60.86

Question:

Do Stehl Tow Car dollies with electric brakes require an electric braking controller in your towing rig? I ask this because the Stehl Tow electric brake system seems to come with an onboard system. What is the battery for if it isn’t an full braking system? I have a Curt Echo unit in route to install. Will I still need the Stehl Tow system battery? Thanks

asked by: Jason

Expert Reply:

From what I could find online it does look like a Stehl tow dolly does require an electric brake controller like the Curt Echo # C51180 you referenced to operate.

The battery that you are seeing in your picture is the Hopkins Engager Breakaway Kit # 20099. The battery is used to engage the brakes on your tow dolly but only in an emergency situation where your tow dolly uncouples from your tow vehicle. Other than that it is the brake controller that tells the brakes when they need to activate.

expert reply by: Jon G