| BrakeSmart® - FAQ |
| Will the BrakeSmart work with my trailer? |
The BrakeSmart is compatible with any trailer that has electric brakes. In addition, it is one of the only controllers that will work with electric/hydraulic brake actuators. It will work with any trailer out there, from one axle to four and even more with reprogramming. Travel trailers, Horse and Livestock trailers, 5th Wheel RV and Gooseneck RV trailers, Equipment and Cargo trailers, Car Haulers, Boat and Transport trailers.
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| Will installing the pressure sensor in the master cylinder affect the the ABS of my tow vehicle? |
No, the pressure sensor does not displace any brake fluid or air. The sensor is a solid state device that is simply measuring the pressure output of the master cylinder. This is the same pressure sensor used with many manufacturers Vehicle Dynamic Control Systems for ABS.
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| Do I need the wire harness kit and why do you sell it separate from the controller? |
All BrakeSmart Controllers require a Wiring Harness Kit. You have the option of choosing the BrakeSmart color as well as the wire harness kit that is tow vehicle specific. Since some customers have several different tow vehicles, Wiring Harness Kits are also sold separately to allow them to use the BrakeSmart controller in all of their trucks. The wire harness kit includes the BrakeSmart to factory tow package receptacle or tow vehicle trailer wire harness. It also contains the BrakeSmart to pressure sensor harness, the tow vehicle specific master cylinder tee, the pressure sensor, and wire ties. These kits are specific to your tow vehicle and the BrakeSmart controller.
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| Why do I need a BrakeSmart controller? |
The peace of mind and ease of use that the BrakeSmart brings to your trailering experience. Say "goodbye" to annoying gain adjustments when trailer weight or driving conditions change. BrakeSmart gives a truly proportional trailer brake based on the output of the tow vehicle. It provides the most proportional truck brake to trailer brake response available. This translates into an immediate, smooth brake action with every brake application. BrakeSmart is capable of applying full brake voltage to the trailer even when the gain is set to the lowest setting. Remember, a full trailer brake is available at any gain setting. This provides a safety factor no other controller can offer.
BrakeSmart is much more than a trailer brake controller, it is a system monitor. BrakeSmart monitors the the voltage output of your tow vehicle and will notify you with both a visual and audible alarm if the tow vehicle voltage drops to 9.0 volts or less. BrakeSmart performs the same function by monitoring the amperage on the trailer wiring system. By keeping tabs on the amperage, BrakeSmart will alert you to potential problems with trailer wire connections and brake magnets.
BrakeSmart compensates for electric brake fade caused by heat being generated at the brakes. This heat creates resistance which the BrakeSmart overcomes by supplying more voltage to the brakes.
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| What is the brake hose used for in the wire harness hookup kit? |
| The brake hose is included to help with the installation of the pressure sensor. After installing the brake line tee in the master cylinder, the sensor port may be at a difficult angle or room may be limited. The hose eliminates these potential issues. |
| Does the BrakeSmart activate my brakes in reverse? |
Yes, the BrakeSmart does activate your trailer brakes in reverse. The BrakeSmart controller is relying on input from the master cylinder not a motion sensing device such as a pendulum or accelerometer. Movement does not affect BrakeSmart operation.
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| Is the BrakeSmart compatible with electric/hydraulic brake actuation systems? |
Yes, the BrakeSmart circuitry is designed to be used with both electric/hydraulic trailer brake systems and electric trailer brake systems. The technology utilized in the BrakeSmart can handle more power and is designed to handle the fly-back current that electric/hydraulic brake systems produce.
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