comparing P2 And P3 Brake Controller For 2016 Thor Palazzo 33.2 Motorhome

Question:

I have a new 2016 Thor Palazzo 33.2. I also have a 19foot enclosed trailer tandem axle, electric brakes coming soon to haul my UTVs in. I will need an electric brake controller and I have some questions about what my BEST options are. I am thinking about the Tekonsha P3, or possibly P2 or the Prodigy RF model. I have heard good things about the P3, but I cant seem to find out if the Thor Palazzo Freightliner XC-S chassis is pre-wiredinch for the brake controller. If not, that might make for a difficult installation. My concern about the Prodigy RF is how it will last over the long term exposed to the elements mounted on the trailer. I live in Alaska, so ... we DO get some weather. Are there any other controllers you would recommend? I want the best / safest combination I can get. Thank you for your thoughts and advice on this.

asked by: Brad F

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Prodigy P2, part # 90885 or P3, part # 90195 are both excellent brake controllers and our most popular because they are easy to install and operate. These are proportional brake controllers that apply the brakes on the trailer with the same intensity as the brakes in the motorhome.

The biggest difference between these two controllers is the display. The P2 features an LED display that shows power output and will display error codes if there is a something wrong with your trailer braking system. The P3 display is a little more user-friendly. It can be set for English, French or Spanish and has color and brightness settings. If there's a problem of any kind with the braking system, it will be displayed on the unit. The P2 displays an error code you would need to look up.

As far as installation of a brake controller on the motorhome I have attached a helpful article that explains how the wiring is run when installing a brake controller. I did some research and found that your motorhome has air brakes as a standard option. You will want to check with your RV dealership to find out if it is prewired for a brake controller and what kind of wiring is on the Thor.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L