Curt Echo Trailer Brake Controller Shows Trailer Brakes Partially Active While Moving

Updated 03/14/2022 | Published 03/12/2022

Question:

I am towing a single axle tear trailer 1,000 lbs behind a Harley Davidson trike. I custom mounted my trailer plug at a slight ~25 degree angle under the chassis between the two rear wheels. I have towed with my brake controller only one time, and the app was showing the brakes as partially active interpreted by the blue ring output indicator being about 15 full when stopped or moving, with the ring filling in more upon applying brakes or touching the manual dot in the app. Does the Curt Echo 51180 brake controller need to be mounted parallel to the path of travel in order to properly sense velocity?

asked by: Jesse D

Expert Reply:

The Curt Echo Trailer Brake Controller # C51180 is not required to be at perfectly parallel to operate properly. It sounds like the unit did not calibrate correctly. When the Curt Echo is plugged in you will see a yellow light flash for 5-8 seconds while the unit is calibrating itself. It will then turn to a solid green to confirm that it has calibrated correctly. Since your Harley Davidson Trike does have a lighter suspension than most vehicles you will want to ensure that the rider weight and any other gear are on the bike before calibrating as this may cause the issue you are having.

You will also want to check the wiring on your 7-way as the Curt Echo should not be activating unless it see the brake lights activated. If they are on when you are moving and not using the brakes this would cause the brakes to activate on the trailer.

expert reply by: Bud M