Inconsistent Braking and Initial Set up of The Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller

Published 09/03/2021

Question:

I have a 1999 suburban and pull a vintage cruiser 19erd. 3500lbs Have set braking starting with 40 and sensitivity at 3. Seeme to be good until I start slowing and about 25- 30 mph the braking get more intense and at 10 mph get real hard braking. Have tried to decrease values and it still does the same thing. I had a controller already in the truck and have unhooked the blue wire. Could this be causing the problem? Thanks

asked by: Randy M

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, make sure you are only using the Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller Item # C51180 you referenced. Any other brake controller should not be used at the same time. This is taken directly from the Echo instruction manual and should walk you through the initial set up again.

Starting with the output adjustment, drive forward on a dry and level paved or concrete surface. At approximately 25 mph, apply the vehicle's brakes. If trailer braking is insufficient, increase the max output setting in the brake controller application. If the trailer brakes lock up, decrease the max output. Repeat this process until stops are firm, just short of lock up.

Once the output is set, adjust the sensitivity by driving forward at approximately 25 mph and press the brake pedal. The vehicle and trailer should make a smooth stop. If the stop seems slow and more aggressive braking is desired, increase the sensitivity level through the brake controller application. If the stop seems too
aggressive, decrease the sensitivity level in the application.

Make several stops at various speeds and adjust the sensitivity until stops are smooth and firm. Slight adjustment to the output control may also be desirable.

expert reply by: Jerred H