Comparing Hopkins Proportional Controller and Time Delay Controllers for 2016 Ram 1500

Question:

What is the difference between a proportional and timed delayed controller? I have a 23foot travel trailer with 2 axles and electric brakes, which controller would be best if traveling in the mountains? I like the Hopkins insight flex mount for the easy access to the controls.

asked by: Steve B

Expert Reply:

Proportional brake controllers will apply the trailer brakes as hard or as light as the vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on the trailer and vehicle brakes.

Time delay controllers send back a predetermined amount of voltage to the trailer brakes for all braking situations over a certain amount of time. This can require a lot of fine tuning to get it just right.

Proportional controllers have to be mounted a certain way to function properly. Time delay controllers do not. No matter which type you choose I recommend using the manual override on the controller when traveling through the mountains so you are in complete control. I have included a link to our informational article on brake controllers with even more details for you.

The Hopkins Agility # HM47294 is a proportional controller. It does allow a little less freedom in terms of mounting than a timed delayed controller because the box that houses the circuitry does have to be mounted a certain direction (see instructions link). To plug this controller into a 2016 Ram 1500 you will also need wiring harness # HM53056.

expert reply by: Michael H