Are Trailer Brakes Brakes Needed for 1000 lb Pop-Up Camper
Question:
Towing a 1000 pop up camper. Do I need the Brake System. 2015 Chevy Equinox
asked by: Elizabeth
Expert Reply:
It will depend on what state you are located in. In most states, trailer brakes aren't required unless the trailer weighs 3500 lbs or more. This being said, if your pop-up is already equipped with them, it's not a bad idea to use them.
If your popup is equipped with brakes, and you'd like to use them, the easiest way to make that happen if you have a smart phone would be by using the Curt Echo # C51180. If your Equinox has a 7-way trailer connector, the controller install would be plug and play. If you have the typical 4-pole trailer connector, in addition to the Curt Echo you'd need the # ETBC7L install kit. If you don't have a trailer connector at all, you'll need the # 118494 wiring kit and the # ETBC7L kit.
The etrailer # e98865 hitch you'd looked at would be perfect for your Equinox. In addition to the items mentioned above, you'll also need a ball mount and a trailer ball. The typical coupler height is around 17 inches, so to place your trailer ball at around the correct height you'll need a ball mount like # 2753. For a 1-7/8 inch trailer ball, use # 19260 or # 63845 for a 2 inch ball.
I've linked to some installation videos that you might find helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 1-7/8 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-1/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1 Inch Diameter Shank
- 2000 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Draw-Tite Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 2-3/4" Rise, 4" Drop - 9" Long - 7.5K
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- Fixed Ball Mount
- No Ball
- 1 Inch Ball Hole Diameter
- Steel Shank - Gloss Black
- Drop - 4 Inch
- Rise - 3 Inch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 7500 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Draw-Tite
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-1/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1 Inch Diameter Shank
- 7500 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Tow Ready
more information >
Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug Mount w/ Bluetooth App - 1 to 2 Axle - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Hidden
- Up to 2 Axles
- Smartphone Display
- CURT
more information >
7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 4000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 400 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
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