Can I Use Time-Delayed Brake Controller With Dexter ABS Brake System, Or Just Proportional?

Updated 11/03/2025 | Published 10/28/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Electric Trailer Brake for Dexter ABS Tow Assist - 10" - Left/Right Hand - 3.5K

(1)

$683.15

Dexter Electric Trailer Brake for Dexter ABS Tow Assist - 12-1/4" - Left/Right Hand - 7.5K

(1)

$719.48

Question:

Can I use a timed brake controller with these Dexter ABS brakes, or do I need a proportional one?

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

Jeff, technically a timed controller will work, but Dexter strongly recommends an inertia-based proportional brake controller for the Tow Assist system. Timed controllers can trigger the ABS more often than needed because they apply power on a preset ramp instead of responding to your vehicle’s actual deceleration. Proportional units like the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 or Redarc Tow-Pro Elite are both verified compatible.

What controller are you using now? I can let you know whether it’s on Dexter’s approved list for ABS Tow Assist setups.

And do you know which size axle or brakes you have on your trailer? That will tell us if you need something like the 10" Dexter Electric Trailer Brake for Dexter ABS Tow Assist # DX73WR for 3,500lb axles, or something bigger like the 12-1/4" Dexter Electric Trailer Brake for Dexter ABS Tow Assist # DX23WR for 7,500lb axles.

expert reply by: Andrew N

Jeff

11/3/2025

Thanks Andrew, that makes sense. I’ve been using an older Tekonsha Voyager for years but I think it’s time-based though. Would it hurt anything to use that for now until I upgrade, or could it mess up the Tow Assist readings?

Andrew N.

11/3/2025

@Jeff Good question, Jeff. The Voyager won’t damage the Tow Assist system, but you’ll probably notice it pulsing the brakes more often than it should. That’s because time-based controllers apply a fixed ramp-up instead of matching your tow vehicle’s braking force, which can make the ABS think a wheel is locking when it isn’t. I’d plan to upgrade when you can - something like the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 or Redarc Tow-Pro will give you much smoother braking and cleaner data to the Tow Assist. But to reiterate, you can certainly keep using your existing controller and it won't hurt anything.