Brake controller Activator IV by DrawTite

[Stouderpower]

Brake controller Dealer said they would install Activator IV by DrawTite. Is this brand any good? They are charging me $175 including installation. Do I really need one for an A-Frame camper less than 2000 pounds dry weight? Thanks..

[MtnGuy]

I think the Activator IV is a time actuated brake controller. Proportional brake controllers are much better.

If your A-Frame camper comes with brakes, then yes, you need a brake controller.

[Stouderpower]

Thanks for the info do you have a brand you recommend?

[MtnGuy]

I use the Prodigy P2 by Tekonsha: Tekonsha!

It works great.

They can be had for about $125 from Etrailer: Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional Tekonsha Brake Controller 90885 There might be a "plug and play" adapter available for your vehicle, if it already has a brake controller wiring harness and 7 pin Bargmen connector.

[thebrakeman]

Highly recommend the Prodigy P2 or the P3, both by Tekonsha.
Activator seems to be time delay = paperweight.
Good practice is to use trailer brakes if you have them. They will help you stop shorter in an emergency.

As far as when they are required, my opinion is if the combined weight of both truck and trailer exceeds the truck's GVWR, you need them. This is because the tow vehicle's brakes were only designed to stop the GVWR of the truck itself.

You didn't state what you are towing with. But unless you have an F350 or better, you need trailer brakes.

[bob caldwell]

There's a few controllers for sale in the FOR SALE area of the forum.

[Flybob]

Many new vehicles ( especially if they come wired with a 7 pin Bargman connector) come with or have available a pigtail that plugs into the vehicle wiring harness. The install and wiring are simple. I recommend the "P" series as well. If you do not have a pigtail, just search etrailer of amazon.

[Scotty]

Originally Posted by Stouderpower

Brake controller Dealer said they would install Activator IV by DrawTite. Is this brand any good? They are charging me $175 including installation. Do I really need one for an A-Frame camper less than 2000 pounds dry weight? Thanks..

Highly recommend Prodigy P2 or P2. Where are you located? I have a perfectly good P3. Just purchased a new one because I thought I had an issue with mine. Turned out the problem was with the trailer connector. My bad, so now I have two perfectly good P3s.