Are There Compatibility Issues With Brake Controllers, Adapter Plugs, and 2020 Jeep Gladiator  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

Great question! Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional - Dash Mount
Item # C51170 is a great option for vehicles with limited cabin space such as your 2020 Jeep Gladiator. It can be mounted virtually anywhere on the dash and doesn't require drilling to be mounted however, the kit does come with a bracket and hardware if you would like to screw the mounting bracket down to give it a more permanent mounting location.

Using the Curt Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers - Dual Plug In Item # C55FR allows you to directly plug into the factory tow package wiring under the driver side dash without having to splice into any of the factory wires and will not interfere with the vehicles other systems.

The Curt Spectrum is a proportional brake controller with a manual override like other brake controllers. Depending on the number you have set on the dial, when you apply the brakes in the vehicle it matches that amount of pressure and gradually builds to the amount set on the dial. The manual override allows you to push the button and apply the brakes on the trailer without applying the brakes on the vehicle. This mode is typically used in a trailer sway situation to get the trailer tracking back behind the vehicle.

The Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 3 Axles - Proportional Tekonsha Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers - Jeep Item # RED44FR and Item # 3073-P has the same functions as the Curt Spectrum except it also has a user mode. When in user mode, whatever number you have the dial set at it applies that amount of pressure without the gradual buildup like a proportional mode. For instance if you are hauling your trailer off road and are going down a steep gravel or dirt road when you apply the brakes in the vehicle with any amount of pressure, whatever number you have set on the dial it directly sends that amount of pressure to the trailer brakes. The manual over ride can be use in either proportional mode or user mode. Keep in mind when in proportional mode it gradually builds to the maximum number/pressure you have the dial set at. In user made it automatically goes to that maximum number/pressure without the gradual buildup.

There is another option if you are concerned about connecting to the plug inside the vehicle and that is the Curt Echo Wireless Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional Item # C51180. This brake controller is going to give you all the same options as the Curt Spectrum except there is nothing mounted inside the vehicle. This brake controller works off your cell phone. You simply download the app, plug the brake controller in to your 7 pole plug, you wire from your trailer into the brake controller and use your phone to control the braking on the trailer. My brother has one and uses it to pull his 10500 lb camper with his 03 H2 and loves it.

expert reply by: Shane H

1