Brake controller info please

[CWCW]

Im looking at getting a brake controller for my F150. My job is going to buy a 20' cargo trailer to pull supplies in with my truck. The trailer is tandom axle and has trailer brakes on it.

What is the difference in the price of some of the brake controllers out there? I know some of them vary on how many axles they are made to work on but other than that, whats the difference in a $130 brake controller and a $70 brake controller?

Also, some of the higher ones are digital, what is it showing and is it important that it is digital?

[CatFan]

The cheaper ones just start applying the brakes when you press the pedal and ramp up to whatever you set. The good ones (proportional controllers) detect how hard you are braking by your deceleration and apply the brakes appropriately. The cheaper ones don't ease off the brakes as you lighten up on the pedal, so the can tend to result in harder stops.

The self-levelling units are much better for newer vehicle. They steep dashes you see now don't accomodate the controllers that have to be mounted level unless you put them almost on the floor where you can't reach them.

I like the Tekonsha Primus and Prodigy. Get the Prodigy. You can find them for around $100.

[CWCW]

Thanks for the info, that clears it up.

[adchunts]

Another vote for the Prodigy. I had many of the same questions you have and spent DAYS researching brake controllers. One of the best things about the Prodigy is that it does not have to be mounted level in the truck (up to 70 degrees from horizontal) to operate correctly. Also has a ton of features that are handy if you pull more than one trailer.

Installation was about a half hour in my '08 Silverado...

[Toypuller]

I have a Prodigy in my F-250 and it has been bullet proof. Worked great out of the box.

On your F-150 there should be a plug under the dash near the radio for a brake controller. Prodigy makes a plug and play adapter that makes hook up a snap.

http://www.etrailer.com/pc-BC~90185.htm

http://www.etrailer.com/p-3035-p.htm