How Are Dexter Electric Trailer Brakes Activated

Question:

how are the brakes activated. Do I need an electric brake controller ?3 Than You

asked by: Chris P

Expert Reply:

Yes, you do need a trailer brake controller in your tow vehicle to power electric trailer brakes like the Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Assembly # 23-464 that you referenced. This is what will connect to the brake circuit on the vehicle so that power is sent back to the trailer brakes in correspondence with the brake pedal.

You will also need a 7-Way connector on the vehicle that hooks up to the trailer. If you can tell me what vehicle you have along with what it's already equipped with in terms of trailer wiring, if any, I will be happy to make some specific recommendations.

For just the brake controller itself I highly recommend the Curt Echo # C51180 because it allows for the easiest setup and operation. Unlike most other brake controllers it doesn't require that you actually install a separate component inside the cab of your vehicle. The Echo will plug right into the 7-Way connector at the rear bumper and pair to your smart phone via Bluetooth after downloading the free app. And that's it. It will then automatically send power back to the trailer brakes in proportion to how hard you're braking in the vehicle. Any adjustments are simply made from your phone.

I have attached a short video demonstration so you can see exactly how it installs and operates. I have also attached a couple general articles on trailer brake controllers that you can look through as well.

expert reply by: Chris R