Can the Dexter # 58-8 Predator DX2 Brake Controller Be Installed Vertically

Updated 09/26/2019 | Published 09/25/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Predator DX2 Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(43)

$166.00

Draw-Tite Activator IV Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 4 Axles - Time Delayed

(357)

$103.41

Question:

Can the controller be mounted on its side vertical instead of flat horizontal as long as it does not exceed the 125 deg from horizontal position.

asked by: Ken

Expert Reply:

According to Dexter, the # 58-8 Predator DX2 needs to be mounted in the direction of travel, level on a side to side plane. If mounted on vertical plane as you mention, the brake controller would not function.

If the vehicle design somehow limits the installation options, and you have no other option than to mount a brake controller vertically, you can use a time delayed brake controller like the # 5504 Draw-Tite Activator IV. Because the controller is solid state, if can be mounted anywhere at any angle as long as its within easy reach of the driver. Because time delayed controllers don't have an internal accelerometer, setting them up is a bit more involved. You'd need to adjust the gain to the amount of power that's delivered to the trailer's brakes once they ramp up, and the synch adjustment allows you to choose how quickly the controller ramps up from zero to the amount of voltage that you set the gain for.

If you click the provided link, you can view a product description video featuring the Activator IV brake controller I mentioned. I've also linked to the owner's manual so you can look it over if you wish to.

expert reply by: Mike L