Hayes Air Actuated Brake Controller or Tekonsha Prodigy P3 for Peterbilt Truck with Air Brakes

Question:

I’m looking at the Hayes controller to use with a Big Tex gooseneck trailer w/electric brakes. Is this the best choice or the P3? Thx much.

asked by: Charles W

Expert Reply:

For your Peterbilt 335 I definitely recommend going with the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195 over the Hayes # HA100400C because it's going to allow for a much easier install and is more economically priced. The P3 also offers a clearer LED display on the unit itself so it's more user-friendly during actual operation as well.

For power the P3 will just get wired into the truck like the Hayes controller, tapping into 12V power and the brake light switch. The difference though is that the P3 will then use this light circuit and the truck's deceleration to apply proportionate power to the trailer's brakes, while the Hayes would also need to attach to the truck's air brake lines and uses this pressure to send back power to the trailer. The Prodigy P3 allows you to completely bypass the air brake system for a much simpler setup.

I have attached a short video demonstration on the Prodigy P3 below that you can check out, along with the complete instructions manual.

expert reply by: Chris R