Choosing Proportional or Time Delayed Brake Controller for Truck with Manual Transmission

Updated 09/05/2019 | Published 09/04/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Curt TriFlex NEXT Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(1220)

$141.95

Universal Wiring Adapter for Curt Trailer Brake Controllers

(463)

$15.30

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(6)

$38.38

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3559)

$118.68

Question:

My truck is a manual transmission, am I better to go with a time-delayed controller as opposed to a proportional controller? My reason for asking is with the proportional, will the brakes on the trailer be applied every time I let off the gas to shift gears?

asked by: Tom

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Curt TriFlex Trailer Brake Controller # C24VV and Universal Wiring Adapter # C51515 is an excellent choice for your 1986 Ford Ranger with a manual transmission.

Proportional brake controllers like the Curt TriFlex have an internal inertia sensor which responds to the deceleration of your tow vehicle. Letting your foot off the gas pedal for a few seconds to shift gears does not create enough of a deceleration to send the signal to engage the brakes on the trailer. The controller won't send back a signal to the brakes unless the brake pedal is applied or the manual override lever is used. Coasting along won't cause the brakes to apply because the stop light circuit isn't being activated.

In comparison with a time delayed brake controller, a proportional controller provides hands down the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on your trailer and tow vehicle which makes it the best choice.

To complete your brake controller installation you also need the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller, part # ETBC7 and a 4-Pole Trailer Connector, part # C55314 if not already present on your truck.

We don't have an installation video on your particular year truck but I have included several helpful videos that basically show the same universal installation process for you to check out.