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What’s the best mobile brake controller for a 2018 4Runner SR5?

Discussion in '5th Gen 4Runners (2010-2024)' started by bg01, Jul 18, 2025 at 12:28 PM.

  1. Jul 18, 2025 at 12:28 PM
    #1
    bg01

    bg01 [OP] New Member

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    By mobile, I mean I can quickly take it off after towing. I would be using a 5x10 utility trailer (700 lbs - 1000 lbs) to tow a a cedar playground set (~350 lbs). About a 3 hour drive out with the utility trailer empty and a 3 hour drive back (loaded).

    Would I even need a mobile brake controller for this amount of weight?
     
    Last edited: Jul 18, 2025 at 1:44 PM
  2. Jul 18, 2025 at 1:04 PM
    #2
    Hungryhawk

    Hungryhawk New Member

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    State law usually controls the trailer weight for trailer brakes.
    Whose trailer? Gross estimated trailer plus load?
    How about selecting a trailer with surge brakes built into the trailer hitch itself?
     
  3. Jul 18, 2025 at 1:43 PM
    #3
    bg01

    bg01 [OP] New Member

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    In-state trip. Gross estimate is max 1200 lbs.

    Trailer with surge brakes is interesting. I’ll need to research this option - thanks for putting it on my radar.
     
  4. Jul 18, 2025 at 1:44 PM
    #4
    kouack

    kouack New Member

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    Maybe a stupid question but does the trailer is equipped with electric brake? I towed a trailer loaded with a small polaris 2 seater side by side and was not an issue. Up here in Canada if i remember (do not quote me on this), but I believe rule is if trailer + load is over half the max tow capacity you need assisted brake on trailer.
     
    bg01[OP] likes this.
  5. Jul 18, 2025 at 7:45 PM
    #5
    icebear

    icebear Member

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    You don’t need trailer brakes for that. (I don’t know what terrain you’ll encounter though)
     
  6. Jul 18, 2025 at 8:57 PM
    #6
    joshdub

    joshdub New Member

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    Your little uhaul utility trailer doesnt even have brakes
     

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