Tuning In The Curt Echo Brake Controller

Question:

Im trying out the Curt Echo brake controller and I cannot find a setting combination that results in a smooth braking experience. Every setting Ive tried gives me jerky and uneasy braking in the trailer: from applying the brakes to releasing them. Should I trade in the controller? Thanks!

asked by: Stephen D

Expert Reply:

I've used the Curt Echo # C51180 many times and it does take some tinkering to really dial it in. The max output is going to be how much pressure will be applied to the trailer brakes. For tuning it in, I suggest keeping it low enough to where it doesn't lock up the wheels completely but high enough for you to be able to feel it. Once that is done, start from setting one on the sensitivity and see if you like how quickly it engages. If it doesn't engage fast enough, you can increase that number. Once the sensitivity is set, leave that setting alone. Then, we can go back to the max output setting and slowly increase that until it starts to get a bit jerky, then dial it back a bit.

This brake controller is extremely popular and once you get it dialed in I highly doubt you will want to trade it in. Just like a normal brake controller, it will take some time to get it all get up and everything but once it's done it's done. With any other brake controller you won't be able to use it on different vehicles and will have to dial it in for each specific trailer every time. The echo is the move, trust me. Keep making the small adjustments we talked about and you'll be very happy you went wireless!

expert reply by: Adam E