Electric Brake Controller

When you’ve attached a trailer, caravan or other heavy, non-motorised vehicle to your towbar, ensuring the safety of yourself and others on the road becomes doubly important while towing. What happens if you have to make a sudden stop while you’re driving twice as much weight than you’re used to? This is precisely why electric brake controllers are so crucial. If you’re looking for an electric brake controller in Melbourne, trust the specialists at FiveStar Towbars to have exactly what you need.

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Understanding Electric brake controllers

Australian law requires that any towed trailer or caravan that exceeds 750kg must be fitted with electric or hydraulic brakes. Electric brakes are activated via a current that comes from an electric brake controller. These are usually mounted below or discreetly hidden from view behind the dashboard of your car and control the brakes in the trailer when the towing vehicle slows or comes to a stop. This lowers the risk of collision between the two vehicles and any other people or vehicles on the road. There are two different types; proportional and time delayed.

Proportional brake controllers use motion sensing technology to ascertain the speed at which the towing vehicle is slowing down and so slows the towed vehicle at a proportional speed. Time delayed brake controllers deliver a programmed amount of power to the brakes when the towing car or truck slows to a stop. This amount is preset by the driver and is largely reliant upon how much weight they are towing.

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Consult the experts today

Whether you have a trailer or caravan with electric brakes, or you’re looking for the very best in electric brake controllers, make a call to FiveStar Towbars today. With our quality product range and superior Melbourne-wide mobile installation service, we have your needs covered. Give us a call today on 1300 787 008

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FAQs

Find answers to common questions about our services and procedures.

Electric Brake Controller FAQs

What is an electric brake controller, and how does it work?

An electric brake controller is a device installed in a tow vehicle that regulates the braking system of a trailer or caravan. It works by sending a signal to the trailer’s brakes to activate them when the tow vehicle’s brakes are applied. This ensures that the trailer slows down in sync with the towing vehicle, providing smoother and safer braking. There are two main types of brake controllers: proportional and time-delayed. Proportional controllers adjust the braking force based on the vehicle’s deceleration, while time-delayed controllers apply a preset braking force after a delay.

How do you install an electric brake controller on a vehicle?

Installing an electric brake controller involves wiring it into the vehicle’s brake system. The basic steps include:

Mounting the Controller: Install the brake controller in a convenient location inside the vehicle, typically under the dashboard.
Wiring: Connect the controller to the vehicle’s brake light switch, battery, ground, and the trailer connector. This often involves running wires through the vehicle to the rear where the trailer connector is located.
Testing: Once installed, test the system to ensure the controller is functioning correctly and that the trailer brakes respond appropriately when the vehicle brakes are applied.

It’s recommended to have a professional install the controller if you’re not confident in your electrical skills.

What are the benefits of using an electric brake controller?

The benefits of using an electric brake controller include:

Improved Safety: Helps prevent the trailer from pushing against the tow vehicle during braking, reducing the risk of accidents.
Smoother Braking: Provides a more controlled and comfortable braking experience, especially important when towing heavy loads.
Reduced Wear: Distributes braking force more evenly, reducing wear on both the vehicle’s and trailer’s brakes.

Can I tow a caravan without an electric brake controller?

In Australia, you cannot legally tow a caravan with electric brakes without an electric brake controller. Any trailer with a Gross Trailer Mass (GTM) over 750 kg must have brakes fitted, and those with electric brakes require a brake controller to operate them.

What is the difference between a time-delayed and a proportional brake controller?

Time-Delayed Controllers: Apply a preset amount of braking force after a delay when the vehicle’s brakes are engaged. They are simpler and less expensive but can result in less smooth braking.
Proportional Controllers: Measure the tow vehicle’s deceleration and apply a proportional amount of braking force to the trailer. They provide smoother and more responsive braking, making them generally preferred for their safety and efficiency.

Which vehicles require an electric brake controller in Australia?

In Australia, any vehicle towing a trailer with a GTM over 750 kg that is equipped with electric brakes requires an electric brake controller. This includes most caravans and larger trailers.

Are electric brake controllers universal, or do they need to be vehicle-specific?

Electric brake controllers are generally universal, meaning they can be installed in any vehicle capable of towing a trailer with electric brakes. However, the installation process and any additional components required, such as wiring harnesses, may vary depending on the vehicle make and model.

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Expert Tow Bar Installation

Electric Brake Controller

Understanding Electric brake controllers

Consult the experts today