Recommended Brake Controller for 2008 Toyota Tundra Towing Pop-Up Camper

Question:

I have a 2008 Tundra and need a brake controller for a popup camper single axle. I have the 7 wire factory setup. Ive read the Tekonsha brand are popular, but cannot distinguish the functional difference between the models, such as the P2 vs P3. If you have a recommendation for a controller, please shoot it to me. Thanks

asked by: Scott S

Expert Reply:

There are two types of brake controllers, time-delayed and proportional. A time-delayed controller will always send the same pre-set amount of voltage to the trailer brakes, while a proportional controller uses an internal sensor to determine how quickly the tow vehicle is decelerating and will send the proper amount of voltage to the trailer brakes for a smooth and predictable stop. A time delayed controller cannot distinguish between a quick stab at the brake pedal and a full out panic stop.

The Tekonsha Prodigy P2 and P3 are both examples of proportional controllers. They are very similar in the way they operate, but the P3 provides a more user friendly interface. Any error codes the on board diagnostics encounter is displayed in plain English (or French or Spanish), while the P2 uses a digital error code that you'll need to look up in the owner's manual (see link).

Either controller would work great for you. If you feel the enhanced display of the P3 is worth the price differential, it would make a great choice. You really can't go wrong with either choice.

expert reply by: Mike L