will i need a brake controller?

I am looking at the encore rog 12 BH (link below) which has a dry weight of 1995 lbs, tongue weight of 301 lbs, gvwr of 3500 lbs.

will i need a brake controller for this?

i see its listed as having electric brakes so i assume that means it works with a brake controller?

http://encore-rv.com/rog12bh/

 

Most states require trailer brakes, thus controller, on anything over 2,000 lb gvw.

 

General rule of thumb - if its equipped with brakes, you will want a brake controller for it.

 

• Statutory requirements vary depending on where you live. https://www.rvtravel.com/trailer-brake-laws-50-states-1100/
• The section of Federal Law that applies on any road in the States is § 393.42(b)(3) of the FMCSRs and it states that any full trailer, any semitrailer, or any pole trailer having a gross weight of 3,000 pounds or less must be equipped with brakes if the weight of the towed vehicle resting on the towing vehicle exceeds 40 percent of the sum of the axle weights of the towing vehicle. I'm not going to get into those calculations but you can read the regulation if you would like to do a deep dive. The short answer is: if your trailer comes with brakes you need to use a controller when towing.

Edit: yo, this member is selling a Tekonsha. https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/tekonsha-p3-brake-controller.803125/#post-28794455

 

You could probably pull it without a brake controller but since the trailer has brakes it would be wise to add a controller. You don't tell us anything about the truck you have, but most are already wired for one. I think a controller will be around $100 installed. There should be a port to plug it in to. Just mount the controller to the dash. If you're buying new from a dealer they will very likely install one for little or no more money.

 

The question was answered above. Here is some controller info if you want it.

I went with redarc liberty. https://www.redarcelectronics.com/us/tundra-tacoma-brake-controller-kit

and used the mounting plate from @pgfitzgerald

Buy direct via DM or https://www.etsy.com/LucianMade/listing/1417438984/redarc-tow-pro-mounting-bracket-for-3rd

Im happy with the controller and bracket, clean and easy install.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/my-redarc-tow-pro-liberty-install.773860/

 

thanks so much

 

<--- 2005 2.7L Tacoma, SR5 that didn't come with a factory receiver, hitch or wiring harness. This year I installed the receiver, hitch & 4-pin wiring harness, but I'm losing my ****ing mind, trying to figure out why there's no 7-pin harness for this truck. I'm buying a small teardrop trailer with brakes, that do NOT work with a 7-pin adapter. WTF? I've searched this site, too and i don't see a link or answer. Curt Echo won't work, and a 4-pin with brake controller isn't enough, according to the RV manufacturer. SO mad right now... any thoughts or maybe point me to a site that could help me? SUPER appreciative for any help.

 

Start a new thread and I'll help you troubleshoot on your new thread in towing. Will need you to get more specific about "will not work with a 7-pin adapter"?

 

As it turns out, the RV company didn't explain things clearly enough for my old brain, because Iron Rigs 4x4 just told me what I'd need to make the whole thing a 7-pin and it ALL makes perfect sense now... but at least now I know it CAN be done, I just wasn't asking the right questions. I bought this truck new in 2005 and never intended to tow anything at all - it's a camping & fishing truck. But now that teardrop trailers are so light, I'm buying one.

Basically, I have a 4-pin, but I will need to re-wire a 7-pin AND brake controller, which will cost me about $1,100