Tech Tips Roundup: Install REDARC Electric Brake Controller With Ease, Today

With 35 years’ worth of experience in providing a range of vehicle aftermarket parts, power suppliers and chargers and electric brake controllers, REDARC has truly proven its reputation and commitment to safety. All products that come out of the production line including the popular electric brake controllers for trailers and trucks are known to meet or even exceed safety expectations. More than the quality of products that it offers, the company is also known for its premium customer and technical support that covers across Australia.

Although the brand is an established player in the industry with products stringently tested for Australia’s road conditions, it doesn’t mean that one should be too confident when installing these products. It is still the responsibility of the truck owner to make sure that the right steps are taken, and the user manual is always used. Listed below are some of the common requirements and mistakes that drivers often encounter when installing the Classic or the Elite electric brake controller from REDARC.

Brake signal pickup. There should be a correct connection for the brake controller trigger wire. When the brakes are applied there should be a battery voltage, and ‘0’ voltage if the brakes are not applied. It should be able to accept the voltage when the over-ride is operated.

Loose mounting. Most drivers often mount the controllers in any orientation. To get the best results, the proportional models like Elite should be fitted securely. A solid mounting can help the internal accelerometer sense the brakes, and provide an output accordingly.

Thick dashboard. The dashboard where the controller will be installed should be a matter of concern. As a rule, the dashboard material should be 2 to 3 mm thick to depress the override button correctly when using the Tow Pro.

Poor wiring gauge and connections. Never underestimate the power of full braking force and the road conditions. When you apply a full braking force, the trailer may end up receiving 25 Amps. Although the trailer is fitted with just one axle, it’s best to become pro-active and prepare a sufficient cable width that can accommodate a 3 axle trailer. The use of cheap wiring components will also backfire in the future if there is a consistent application of full braking force. Use of crimp terminals and blade fuses will definitely fail a year of full use.

Use of User Manual. In an effort to complete a DIY project, many truck and trailer owners often take bold steps in the installation of the controller. The company behind these products recommend the use of the user manual that outlines the specific installation instructions for a specific product, say the Tow-Pro Elite. Often, the safety and efficiency of the products are anchored on how correctly these are installed and used.