How Brake Controllers Work
Sometimes simply hooking up a brake controller to your trailer isn't enough reassurance. It helps to know how much brake power you're applying during a stop or whether the trailer brakes are even functioning at all. Brake controllers almost always have some type of monitor built in, which, if placed correctly -- often under the instrument panel, near the driver's right leg -- is easily viewable from the driver's seat.As technology improves, newer brake controllers, specifically electronic ones, offer more monitoring options. Some models come with LCD screens that give specific, continuous diagnostics and important warning signals to drivers. Often, displays are customizable, with language options in not just English but French and Spanish -- some even offer color choices.
Digital display screens show the voltage delivery going from the brake controller to the trailer's brakes. The more you press down on the brake pedal, the more power will go toward the trailer's brakes; if you give the pedal a softer touch, less power goes to the trailer's brakes. The brake controller monitor reflects the amount of pressure and power you're applying to the brakes. Brake controller monitors help you make sure your trailer is properly connected and will notify you of any electrical problems that could put you in danger.
Installing a brake controller is a fairly easy task. The first step involves simply mounting the brake controller in an area that is easy to access. Most people choose to place it under the dashboard and directly above your right leg; this keeps the brake controller in view, where you can monitor any potential problems.
Brake controllers typically come with a four-wire configuration, which can be hooked up to the braking system's wiring. If you're not comfortable with bundles of wires, you might want to have a trained professional take care of your brake controller installation; however, if you know what you're doing and follow the directions provided by the device's manufacturer, installing a brake controller shouldn't be a problem.