What Is The Difference Between Proportional and Time Delayed Trailer Brake Controllers?

Published 11/02/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Curt TriFlex NEXT Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(1022)

$141.95

Curt Discovery NEXT Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 4 Axles - Time Delayed

(64)

$113.95

Question:

What is the difference between proportional and time delayed

asked by: Tim P

Expert Reply:

The Curt TriFlex NEXT Trailer Brake Controller # C24VV you are looking at is a proportional controller. This means when you press on the brakes the controller is going to have an inertia sensor which then factors in how quickly the vehicle is stopping and adjusts the amount of power going to the trailer brakes from your original setting. The easiest explanation I can give you is when you lightly press the brakes to slow down this controller will lessen the amount of power sent to the trailer brakes to prevent them from dragging your vehicle to a stop. And likewise if you slam on your brakes in a panic brake scenario it will increase the amount of power sent to the trailer brakes so the trailer isn't trying to push you.

On a timed controller like the Curt Discovery NEXT Trailer Brake Controller # C84VV any time you press the brake pedal it will send the same braking force to the trailers brakes. I have included some images which also highlight this infomation in a chart style if that helps you to better understand what is going on.

expert reply by: Bud M