Should I Choose a Proportional or a Time Delayed Brake Controller for my 2008 Ford F-150 and Camper

Updated 12/08/2020 | Published 12/05/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - Ford, Lincoln, Mercury

(1793)

$19.05

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

(3398)

$119.84

Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(2159)

$90.04

Question:

which is best? Ill be pulling a 7100 lbs camper including hitch weight. I just want the camper to stop evenly without worry about grabbing brakes

asked by: Tim K

Expert Reply:

The proportional is with out a doubt the way to go. It provides better braking performance in all ways compared to the older time delayed technology. It will apply the brakes proportionally or similar to what the vehicle is doing. During emergency braking it applies them quite quickly in a normal stop they are more gentle and will stop applying them at stops.

A time delayed controller applies the brakes the same every time regardless of the situation. this can lead to not enough braking in an emergency and too much or grabbing at slower speeds. At stops the brake magnets work the entire time sometimes causing heat build up.

On your F-150 it is going to depend on if your have a factory 4-pole flat connector or a factory 7-pole round connector.

For the factory 7-way the Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller part # TK90160 and the Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers part # 3035-P is a great way to go. Tekonsha makes great controllers that are easy to use. The Primus IQ offers a lot of bang for the buck. The pigtail plugs into the existing brake controller port and makes for an easy install.

For the factory 4-way there is a bit more to it but it isn't too bad. You can use the same brake controller and pigtail from above and add the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller part # ETBC7. This will give you the necessary components to get a fully functional 7-way then be able to run the wires you need for power and brakes. Check out the attached videos showing both recommendations on trucks which will be very similar to yours.