Setting the Power Output on a Hopkins Agility Brake Controller for a 1,200 Pound Tent Trailer
Question:
Planning to tow a 1200 lb tent trailer with a 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5i with a manual transmission. What settings should I start with on the Hopkins Agility brake controller in terms of sensitivity and power setting?
asked by: Randy S
Helpful Expert Reply:
Since your trailer is light at 1,200 pounds I recommend starting out on the lower end of the power output on the Hopkins Agility brake controller # HM47294. There is a way to get it set just right. Basically you take the vehicle and trailer to an empty parking lot, set the controller to half power, and then get going at about 25 miles per hour.
When up to speed use just the controller's manual override lever and not the vehicle brakes at all. If the brakes lock up then adjust the power and sensitivity down. If they do not lock up adjust the power up. You want the trailer brakes to be at a point just under wheel lock up.
The weight of your tent trailer isn't going to vary much so once you have it set where you want it you likely will not have to make adjustments for a long time.
