Electric Brake Controller Kits
Electric Brake Controllers - For Caravans & Trailers
The importance of quality towing and brake controllers
Before we delve into the benefits, let's understand what exactly an electric brake controller is. Simply put, it's a device that allows you to control the power to the electric brakes in your caravan or trailer. It works by sending a variable voltage from your brake controller to the trailer brakes or caravan brakes, activating the electric trailer brakes in synchronization with your vehicle. This ensures safe and efficient braking, regardless of the load or terrain.
Why do I need an electric brake controller?
Improved Safety
An electric brake controller significantly enhances your safety by providing proportional braking. This means that the brakes on your trailer or caravan will engage in proportion to the force applied to your vehicle's brakes. This ensures a smooth and controlled braking experience, reducing the risk of accidents and maintaining stability while towing.
Legal Requirements in Australia
In Australia, legal requirements stipulate that any trailer or caravan exceeding a gross trailer mass (GTM) of 750kg must be equipped with its own braking system. For those trailers or caravans with a GTM between 750kg and 2000kg, the braking system may be either non-proportional (override) or proportional (electric), but it must be operable from the driver's seating position.
However, for trailers or caravans with a GTM exceeding 2000kg, a brake system must operate on all wheels, that can be controlled from the driver's seat and that works in harmony with the towing vehicle's brake is mandatory. This is where the electric brake controller comes into play.
It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and the laws may vary slightly in different Australian states and territories. Trailers over 4500kg have additional requirements see ADR 38/02 - Trailer Brake Systems for more details.
Greater Control Over Braking
Traditional braking systems often lack precision when it comes to towing. The electric brake controller gives you more control over your braking. With adjustable settings, you can fine-tune the braking force according to your specific needs. Whether you're traveling downhill, navigating winding roads, or making sudden stops, the electric brake controller provides responsive and effective braking, giving you peace of mind and confidence.
Redarc Tow-Pro Elite v3
The Redarc Tow-Pro Elite v3 maintains its reputation as a market leader in electric trailer brake controllers. It retains the two braking modes - Proportional (for highway conditions) and User-Controlled (for off-road driving). The third version of this renowned product is compatible with all new vehicle technology, and is able to operate from 12v or 24 volt supply systems.
With its primary function to ensure safety, the Tow-Pro Elite v3 uses accelerometer technology, which automatically adjusts brake levels on the go, providing a smoother and safer towing experience.
A swaying trailer can create a dangerous situation if it gets out of control, the redarc control knob is installed where the driver can push the button and apply the trailer braking independently to the tow vehicle brakes and bring a swaying trailer back into line.
This state-of-the-art brake controller system is a testament to Redarc's ongoing commitment to innovation and safety in towing solutions.
Elecbrakes Controller
Elecbrakes is a revolutionary trailer mounted solution, leading the industry with its cutting-edge technology. Utilizing Bluetooth connectivity, the controller pairs with a smartphone application, allowing users to monitor and adjust braking power in real-time. The app's intuitive interface ensures easy configuration and fine-tuning of braking parameters based on the towing vehicle and load conditions.
The Elecbrakes controller offers plug-and-play installation, negating the need for any hardwiring to tow vehicles. This portable electric brake controller allows for quick transfer between different vehicles, making it an ideal solution for multiple trailer use, including Caravan electric brakes, boat trailers and horse floats.
Installation of Redarc Brake Controllers
The redarc towpro v3 can be self-installed by someone with experience working on vehicles using an redarc installation wiring kit, it usually takes 2-3 hours depending on the vehicle. If you are not familiar with car electrical systems we advise getting professionally installed by an auto electrician.
Installation of Elecbrake Brake Controllers
The installation process of Elecbrakes is remarkably straightforward, begin by mounting the Elecbrake unit on the trailer using the included hardware. The unit should be installed in a location that is protected from road debris but still accessible for Bluetooth connectivity.
Once securely mounted, proceed by plugging the trailer's existing wiring into the Elecbrakes unit. Lastly, connect the wiring from the Elecbrakes unit to the trailer's plug.
After the physical installation, download the Elecbrakes app on your smartphone and pair it with the unit via Bluetooth. From the app, you can tailor-specific brake response settings to suit your load and driving conditions. This step completes the Elec brakes installation process, and your trailer is now ready to use.
FAQs
What are the benefits of having the Elecbrakes installed on the trailer and not on the car?
Firstly, this setup allows for enhanced flexibility, as any vehicle equipped with a tow bar and socket can tow the trailer without needing a specific brake controller installed. This feature is especially beneficial for those who frequently change their towing vehicles.
Elecbrakes facilitates easy transfer of trailers among various operators, as the brake settings are saved on the trailer itself, eliminating the need to adjust the settings each time.
Lastly, since Elecbrakes are installed on the trailer in minutes, making it an EasyFit for self installation, there is no need for intricate hardwiring within the towing vehicle.
What are Plug + Play Electric Brake Controllers?
The Plug + Play Electric Brake Controller is a significant feature of Elecbrakes that drastically simplifies the process of trailer brake control. This feature eliminates the need for vehicles to have a pre-installed brake controller, as the controller is now integrated within the trailer itself.
When the trailer is connected to any vehicle, the Electric Brake Controller automatically communicates with the vehicle's braking system. This seamless integration ensures consistent brake performance, no matter which vehicle is towing the trailer.