Trailer Brake Controller Installation in 2001 Fleetwood Discovery to Tow Race Trailer

Question:

I have a 2001 Fleetwood discovery with air breaks. I have a 34foot triple axel race trailer. what is my best options to install eclectic break box on my motorhome? Thanks for your time.

asked by: FELIX H

Expert Reply:

The first thing to do is check your Fleetwood owner's manual to confirm that your specific Discovery motorhome model has the towing capacity for your 34-foot triple axle race trailer. I was able to find a copy of the Fleetwood base manual online but it did not include a gross trailer weight (GTW) spec. Many motorhomes top out at a 5K tow rating so you definitely want to check with Fleetwood using your VIN.

To install an electronic trailer brake controller in the MH you will need to access a brake light signal. This brake signal is required to trigger the output for electric trailer brakes or an electric-over-hydraulic (EOH) brake actuator. One of the most reliable and easy-to-use brake controllers is the Prodigy P3 # 90195. This is the controller I recommend.

You will need to pickup the Brake Signal off of the Treadle Valve at the back of the Brake Pedal. The Treadle Valve is a valve that is operated by the Brake Pedal and directs air pressure from the dry reservoir tank to the brake chambers. The Treadle Valve also has a pressure switch that activates the brake lights on the rear of the vehicle.

You can use brake controller install kit # ETBC7 to hard wire the P3, and you will also need extra wire, part # 10-2-1 (sold by the foot). The Discovery model year 2004 and later have a port under the dash but yours does not, according to Fleetwood, so your install will be hardwired. An article and video are linked to help you.

expert reply by: Adam R