Trailer Brake Question

I recently bought a boat, close to 3000 pounds with trailer. The trailer has brakes and my 2010 has the towing package.

Could someone clarify if I need a brake controller to get my trailer brakes to work...

I have no idea and hate to get in any situation that could have been prevented.

Thanks!

 

Yes, your vehicle needs a brake controller to activate the trailer brakes. The question(s) is:
1. Did the vehicle come with a manufacturers brake controller installed? or
2. Is there an aftermarket brake controller that has been installed when or after you purchased the vehicle?

If there is no brake controller present, you will need to purchase and install a brake controller along with the wiring harness to operate it. It is not a hard project, most recent vehicles esp those with factory tow packages have most of the wiring harness installed at the factory, and you will need the harness adapter for your vehicle and the brake controller you choose. There are many good controllers on the market, I have used the Tekonsha Prodigy for many years, and with a little research you will find what is best for you.

I recently installed my Prodigy in my new Tacoma, and the total install time was approx 20 minutes.
Best, GM

 

Thanks for the response! I doubt my dealer put one on my Tacoma, guess I need to purchase one.

Thanks again!

 

*** DEPENDS ON THE BRAKES.
If the brakes are electric, you need a controller for them.
If the brakes are HYDRAULIC, you just clamp it on and go.

Take a look at the coupler. Is it just a simple coupler? Or is it a bit complicated with an unscrewable cap on top for the hydraulic brake fluid?

 

Good thought...a boat trailer may just have hydraulic, rather than electric brakes.

 

Any trailer could have either, but it is more critical for a boat trailer to be hydraulic due to potential problems from water, or especially SALT water. I prefer a set of hydraulic disk brakes for any trailer. Better stopping, better compatibility.

 

Most boat trailers I've seenhave surge brakes, not electrics. As the tow vehicle slows the trailer applies pressure to the hitch, that adds pressure to the braking system. No controller needed.