Brake controller needed?

rbyham · #1 (**permalink**) 04-07-2009, 10:19 PM

I have a new to me 2006 DC v8. I have a very lite camping trailer. The trailer is 17feet and I have weighed it at 2400lbs on gravel scale. I am thinking of taking it into Rockies for one night on Friday. I realize the trailer wont come anywhere near stressing the Tundra but here is my question. I doubt I will be able to install my Prodigy brake controller before going out this time. I am waiting for that connector/adaptor to come DHL. But if I connect the trailer to the 7 pin even without a brake controller installed wont I have some braking to the trailer? Any concerns for safety? How does braking work if I dont have the controller installed? Thanks...

tomhole · #2 (**permalink**) 04-08-2009, 12:33 AM

No, you will have no brakes to the trailer without the brake controller. 2400 lbs is too much weight without trailer brakes, especially in the mountains. My rule of thumb for trailer brakes is simple: if the total weight of the truck and trailer exceeds the GVWR (6600 lbs in your case), then you should have trailer brakes. They are required by law above a certain weight, but that varies by state.

Do you still have the pigtail that came with the truck? You can connect the pigtail that came with the prodigy to the factory provided pigtail.

Tom

Only Toyota for me · #3 (**permalink**) 04-08-2009, 02:09 AM

I agree with Tom 100%.

You really shouldn't tow that trailer without brakes; it can be dangerous as well as cause brake warpage on your truck. I'd see what you can do to wire that controller in if possible before you leave. You should have got a wire harness with the truck in the glovebox. YOu can temporarily hook it up until you get your harness.

rbyham · #4 (**permalink**) 04-08-2009, 07:15 AM

Thanks folks... I will figure out how to install if we do decide to go for a night this weekend. Could be the adaptor I ordered off etrailer will arrive in next couple days. I have already located the white plug-in by the driver's left foot so wold be a quick install. WIll also look for the pigtail and may temporarily wire it direct with that. I think the pigtail is supposed to be in the glove box but a quick look did not reveal it. Oh well. Thansk again and I will hold off towing until the prodigy is in. Used that previously on same trailer but in a Kia Sorento. Pulled and braked great!