Towing and Brake Controller

[tige20v]

This is going to sound like a absolutely stupid question, but i have heard SOO many contradictory statements about whether you need a brake controller or not to tow these boats! We have a 2004 Sequoia and i have posted before, and are going to be a towing a 2006 20v. DO I need a brake controller in this vehicle? It came with the tow package, and has i belive a 7-pin? hook, and we have the converter to being it to a 5 pin setup. We don't tow, other than once out, and it stays out at the cabin usually. PLEASE HELP as we pick it up friday! Thankyou

Justin

[Tige22ityper]

No, you don't need a brake controller. The trailer already has brakes with it. That's why you have the 5 way flat on the trailer. When you back up, the reverse lights will disengage the brakes so you can back up.

[tige20v]

ok, thank-you very much. That is what the dealer and told me, but when I went to another boat shop earlier I was told differently each time! Extremely frustrating. So once again thankyou for straightening that out for me!

Justin

[tigeone]

Justin,You do not need a brake controller,I tow with a 2002 F-250 Superduty,I can`t even tell the trailer & boat is back there when I am braking,the only time I feel it is when I take off from a stop,I feel a little bump and that is it...Those traile brakes work great!!

[holiday13]

I was told you can't even get electric brakes on a boat trailer, only surge brakes which operate off a piston, and do not need a brake controller

[tige20v]

Holiday 13 is quite right. After some research, and calling the local hitch shop, it is piston brakes that you will find on a boat trailer. Rarely, on a large 'yaucht' they mentioned you MAY have electical brakes. Thx for the replys