Electric Brake Controllers
If your trailer is equipped with electric brakes, you will need an electrical brake controller in order to tow with it. Most states require trailers to be equipped with brakes and brake controllers. In Virginia, trailers must be equipped with brakes if they weigh 3,000 pounds or more. An electrical brake controller can be installed in the cab of the vehicle and allows a driver to activate and monitor trailer brake activity.
There are two different types of electrical brake controllers to choose from. Each type operates differently and has their own unique benefits. Determining the best one for your vehicle means knowing what you will be towing and how often.
If you are planning on towing heavy cargo and tow frequently, we recommend installing a proportional brake controller. Proportional brake controls provide a smooth braking response with any stop. Using a motion sensory device, a proportional brake control can detect a tow vehicle’s rate of deceleration and apply the trailer brakes in sync. With only a slight difference in cost, a proportional brake controller offers more accurate braking than a time-delay brake controller.
If you only plan to tow light trailers or cargo a few times a year, a time-delay brake controller might be the right choice for you. A time-delay brake controller does not rely on sensors to detect braking in the tow vehicle. Instead, every time the brakes in the tow vehicle are applied a signal is sent to the trailer brakes. The braking power and gradual delay is adjustable by the user to suit road conditions, type of trailer and size of load.
Southside Hitch offers both proportional and time-delay brake controllers from top brands like Tekonsha and Curt. Our expert technicians can install your brake controller into any make or model of vehicle.
If you are in the need of having an electrical brake controller installed, call Southside Hitch at 804-378-1992 or visit us in Midlothian. Our professional team will be glad to serve you. We can also handle all of your trailer brakes installation and repairs.