Brake Controller

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   We just sold our TV, and are purchasing a 2004 Suburban.  It has a tow package, and we were told we don't need a brake controller.  But I can't find that anywhere myself.  Anyone know if we do need to install a controller?  I would hate to have trouble up in the mountains in a few weeks!
Thanks!

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cnrpod Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Newbie Joined: 03 Jun 2011 Location: Pacific NW Online Status: Offline Posts: 3	Topic: Brake Controller Posted: 20 Jul 2011 at 11:41pm
	We just sold our TV, and are purchasing a 2004 Suburban. It has a tow package, and we were told we don't need a brake controller. But I can't find that anywhere myself. Anyone know if we do need to install a controller? I would hate to have trouble up in the mountains in a few weeks! Thanks!

TerryM Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Admin Group - pHp Joined: 16 Nov 2009 Location: Saint Augustine Online Status: Offline Posts: 1950	Posted: 21 Jul 2011 at 4:38am
	I think you should get one myself. The Chevy is big enough to easily handle the R-Pod but you need the ability to make adjustments to the campers brakes. Terry
	RP-175 W/Lift Kit 2011 Ford F-150 4X4 Saint Augustine, FL: The first permanent European settlement in the USA: 1565

harleyguy1 Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Newbie Joined: 04 Dec 2010 Location: texas Online Status: Offline Posts: 38	Posted: 21 Jul 2011 at 8:07am
	I agree with Terry, a brake controller makes it much easier to stop your vehicle without the worry of 'will it stop or not'!!! Makes me more comfortable while towing at highway speeds, and I especially think they are a must to have in the mountains. They will also extend the brake life of your TV. The new controllers are basically plug and play as far as the installation goes, and can be done in about 15 minutes if you have the factory tow package on your TV.
	Marshal 2011 R-177 Longview, Tx

this_is_nascar Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Senior Member Joined: 24 Jan 2010 Location: NJ Online Status: Offline Posts: 466	Posted: 21 Jul 2011 at 8:26am
	See my reply in the other forum that you posted the question.
	"Ray & Connie" - 2017 R-Pod RP-180 - 2007 Toyota Tacoma TRD-Off Road

techntrek Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Admin Group - pHp Joined: 29 Jul 2009 Location: MD Online Status: Offline Posts: 9059	Posted: 21 Jul 2011 at 9:29am
	Some newer large vehicles, like pickups, have integrated brake controllers but I doubt anything from 2004 does. If it doesn't, like others have said "yes" you should get one. The Tekonsha line is a good choice. Let me know how the Suburban goes, its currently on my short list for a future TV upgrade.
	Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ Pod instruction manual

Guests Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Guest Group	Posted: 21 Jul 2011 at 9:57am
	I agree with the others. My 2009 Silverado had the option of a factory/dealer installed brake controller (mounted in the dashboard) - which I opted not to get, as I prefer the Prodigy. It has the factory tow package, but the controller was an additional option, in addition to the tow package. I can't speak to your particular model/year. Indiana requires any trailer over 1000lbs to have it's own (working) braking system. I think most States will have some similar law. There has to be something to control the brakes on your Pod in order for them to be "working".