Is Reverse Light Circuit Needed When Using the Curt Echo Bluetooth Brake Controller

Question:

I have a UFP A75 slide surge actuator and UFP disc brakes already. Is it possible to reuse my disc brakes that are there? Im assuming Id need to replace the UFP slide as well? I have a folding tongue already. Its a 2009 MFI trailer for a yamaha jeg boat. Surge brakes are all brand new. Trying to see whats salvageable to move to electric brakes rather than surge brakes.

asked by: Christian S

Expert Reply:

If you purchased a 4-Way/7-Way Hopkins adapter like part # 37185 so that you can use the Curt Echo Mobile Trailer Brake Controller # C51180 then you are correct about only needing to connect the 12V power wire for the brake controller (in addition to connecting the typical trailer light circuits and ground). The reverse light wiring is optional and is really only needed if your trailer has a separate circuit for the reverse lights.

We actually created the kit # ETBC7L for people who want to use the Echo and only have a 4-Way on their vehicle. If you are just wanting the wiring and circuit breaker out of this kit then these are parts # 12-1-1 and # 9510 on our site. This gives you the wiring needed to activate the 12V power needed for the Echo to activate your trailer brakes.

expert reply by: Jon G

Christian S.

12/28/2018

Jon G.

12/28/2018

Disc brakes are only compatible with hydraulic braking systems but I do have a solution for you that allows you to use the Curt Echo while retaining the disc brakes that you currently have. If you lock out your surge actuator completely so that it doesn't move you can then install the HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes # HBA16. This gives you an electric-over-hydraulic (EOH) braking system which means you get the accuracy and adjustability of an electric brake controller with the power of your disc brake hydraulic system. If your reason for switching to electric brakes is purely about maintenance then we would need to get you set up with different brakes. Just let me know what the weight capacity is of your axle and I can make some recommendations for you. Otherwise if you are just wanting to use a brake controller for more accurate and controller braking then the EOH actuator is the way to go. Attached is a sample installation of this on a horse trailer for you to check out.