Why Can't Trailer Brake Controller Activate Flat Towed Vehicle Brakes
Updated 05/08/2023 | Published 05/06/2023
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Question:
One of your writer said “ Brake controllers cant activate the brakes of a vehicle being flat towed”. My question is why not? If it is safe for a trailer, why not for a flat towed vehicle?
asked by: Stephen J
Expert Reply:
Trailer brake controllers are designed to activate electric drum brake assemblies that use varying voltage to actuate how hard the brakes are applied. Flat towed vehicles use a totally different system as they use hydraulic brakes. So there's no way for a trailer brake controller to interface with vehicle brakes.
This is why supplemental braking systems like the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR physically press the brake pedal of the vehicle they are installed in to apply the brakes.
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