Does Towing Two Trailers Require Two Brake Controllers

Updated 04/15/2024 | Published 11/15/2021

Question:

I intend on tandem towing my Polaris on a 12’ utility trailer with electric brakes behind my 5th wheel trailer. Assume all laws are being followed with regards to maximum length, etc. my question is, do I need a 2nd brake controller in the cab of my truck? I intend on plugging my 5th wheel into the bed of my truck like always and plugging my utility trailer into the 7 pin receptacle in my bumper after lengthening the wiring. Concerns? Problems? Am I crazy? Thank you

asked by: Bob S

Expert Reply:

I think in an absolutely ideal world you'd have two brake controllers so that you could set the max braking pressure individually but in reality that would be really involved to pull off and you'd get solid results with just a single brake controller like the Prodigy P2 part # 90885 activating both trailers brakes. You'd just have to tap into the brake output circuit of the front trailer so that you could run it to the trailer connector for the second trailer to power both. To pull this off though I would recommend going to 8 gauge wire for the brake output circuit of both trailers otherwise the brakes may feel weak.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Greg

4/14/2024

To add to Bob’s question, as I have a similar question. I have a 2022 Silverado 2500HD with built in brake controller. I have a 7-pin connector in the bed, and on the bumper, which is probably what Bob was suggesting. To follow his idea, could I run my 5th wheel off the built in controller via the 7-pin connector in the bed, and then the small utility trailer (with brakes) off of the connector on my bumper?