Contenu
The ability to stop a heavy load while towing is just as important as moving it down the road. To facilitate braking, most trailers that weigh over 5,000 pounds are equipped with an electronic braking system. By installing an electronic brake controller, such as those manufactured by Tekonsha, you are able to control the sensitivity of your trailers braking system from the comfort of the drivers seat.
Step 1
Hook the trailer to the tow vehicle after the brake controller has been installed. Plug the trailers wiring harnesses into the appropriate outlets on the tow vehicle. Turn the knob on the side of the Tekonsha brake controller so that it is at the 12 oclock position.
Step 2
Test-drive the vehicle on a paved, flat surface where you can safely reach speeds of approximately 25 miles an hour. After accelerating to 25 miles an hour, push the manual slide on the front of the brake controller to apply the trailer brakes. Decrease the power by turning the power knob counterclockwise if the trailer brakes lock up. Conversely, increase power to the trailer braking system by turning the power knob clockwise if the trailer braking power is insufficient.
Step 3
Accelerate and stop the trailer using the manual slide on the controller repeatedly, until the trailer brakes receive sufficient power to stop without locking up. Fine-tune the Tekonsha brake controller power setting by driving at low speeds and stopping both the tow rig and the trailer by applying pressure to the vehicles brake pedal. Make additional adjustments to the power knob, as needed, to comfortably stop the trailer with the automatic response generated by depressing the brake pedal.
Adjust the level settings of the brake controller after the power settings have been confirmed. Drive at low speeds and make a few stops using the tow vehicles brake pedal to apply braking power. If there is too much braking power, turn the level knob clockwise to remedy an aggressive level setting. To supply additional power for a lack of braking power, or delayed level setting, turn the level knob counterclockwise.
Items you will need
- Trailer
- Tow vehicle
- Tekonsha brake controller
