Will Curt Echo Allow Multiple Vehicles to Tow Scout Troop Trailer
Updated 10/30/2025 | Published 02/25/2025
Question:
Hi, I am a scoutmaster for a scout troop. We just bought a new trailer in hopes to have more people be able to pull it. We went from a 8 x 16 double axle down to a single-axle 7 x 12 but still with a trailer brake much more approachable haul. Im looking at possibly getting a Echo mobile for the troop so that it can be used on multiple tow vehicles and we know that whoever is pulling has the benefits of the trailer brakes. My question is sort of two fold: 1 is this a good approach, as we want to be able to pull the trailer with as many individuals as we can and 2 are there other options that we should review before going forward with this option?
asked by: Patrick C
Expert Reply:
Hey Patrick! The Curt Echo # C51180 is your best bet and likely the most cost effective way to allow a variety of vehicles to tow the trailer with brakes. Brakes definitely make a difference and will keep things safer. I remember my dad towing our old troop trailer that probably exceeded our towing capacity and didn't have brakes since nobody else could. It was......exciting.
With the Echo and electric brakes you will be limited to vehicles that have a 7-way installed so keep that in mind. The other route you could take is to move to hydraulic surge brakes. This will cost a little more and be a bit more work but would allow anyone with a capable vehicle and a 4-way to tow the trailer without a brake controller.
If you decide to go that route it will require a surge brake actuator, hydraulic brake lines, and hydraulic brake assemblies. Brake assemblies depend on the axle so you will have to identify it by looking at the axle tag. You would also need to change the wiring a bit swapping from a 7-way to a 4-way. If that is something you might be interested in let me know in the comments below.
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Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Plug-In
- Smartphone App
- Under-Dash
- Up to 2 Axles
- Smartphone Display
- Multiple Trailers
- CURT
more information >
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Robin H.
10/30/2025
Hey Patrick, how did things go with the Curt Echo for your troop’s trailer? Did it make it easier for different drivers to tow safely? Your experience could really help others managing shared trailers for groups.