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Towing Electric Brake Question

Discussion in 'Towing' started by Cowboy59, Jan 21, 2021.

  1. Jan 21, 2021 at 10:46 AM
    #1
    Cowboy59

    Cowboy59 [OP] Enjoy the Adventure

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    I have pulled horse trailers for many years and am familiar with electric brake controllers.

    I am considering a small camper trailer that is between 2000 and 2700 lbs. Having it fitted with electric brakes is an option. So I have two questions.

    1. Is it necessary or recommended to have electric brakes on camper that small?

    2. If it is recommended, what brake controller would you recommend and are any wiring mods necessary for the controller to work with the factory hitch wiring?

    Thanks in advance for all the advice.
     
  2. Jan 21, 2021 at 12:35 PM
    #2
    alittleoff

    alittleoff New Member

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    1. To me it is necessary to have trailer brakes for your safety and others around you.
    And to reduce your liability in court. If it ever came to that.

    2. The Tekonsa P2 is a good and simple controller to dial in to your needs.
    It’s easy to wire to the factory pigtail that came with your vehicle.

    l mounted mine in one of the unused cubbies on the center lower dash.
    And it controls the 4 different trailers that I have.
    Side note. I also made a short extension from the factory trailer sockets under the rear bumper to a more center mounted socket.
     
  3. Jan 21, 2021 at 12:38 PM
    #3
    Cowboy59

    Cowboy59 [OP] Enjoy the Adventure

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    Thank you for that recommendation. I really appreciate it.
     
    alittleoff[QUOTED] likes this.
  4. Jan 21, 2021 at 1:09 PM
    #4
    alittleoff

    alittleoff New Member

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    Another thing to consider is the outside mirrors. At minimum, those clamp on flat/convex combos, IMO, are necessary for sight and safety.
    If Law Enforcement is behind you and can’t see your mirrors, it means you can’t see them.

    Many years ago when I had a ‘93 Tacoma, I made removable mirrors that extended 12” past the factory mirrors to tow my 19’ TT (with brakes on both axles).
    We even got a thumbs up from a passing State Trooper.
     
    Cowboy59[OP] likes this.
  5. Jan 22, 2021 at 5:58 AM
    #5
    Cowboy59

    Cowboy59 [OP] Enjoy the Adventure

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    Going with a Tekonsha P3. Etrailers.com did not list the P2. Such a simple hook up.
     
    alittleoff[QUOTED] and bobcat like this.
  6. Jan 22, 2021 at 6:44 AM
    #6
    bobcat

    bobcat New Member

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    I also bought the P3, for when I actually get a trailer in the hopefully not-too-far-off future. Seems like a great solution.
     
    alittleoff likes this.
  7. Jan 29, 2021 at 1:54 PM
    #7
    ian408

    ian408 New Member

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    I have the Tekonsha in my Tacoma but opted for the Redarc for the Runner. Why? Because the Redarc allows you to mount the control in an unused switch slot making the install pretty clean-the Taco's is on the bottom left of the dash.

    Both controllers are great and both self level making it easier to install them where you want.
     
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