Re: [A/S] Drawtite brake controller

["Terry Tyler" <tylerbears@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Tricia & Conrad,

You asked about the Drawtite Brake Controller. Yes, I have one. I bought it in September 2000 and
just returned from using it for 8 months and almost 15,000 miles. I like the fact it has no moving
parts inside the controller. The digital readout is large and easily readable.

One other feature I have come to really like is accessibility of the knob for increasing brake
capacity "on the fly." The knob adjustment is in "clicks" which I can feel with my finger without
looking at the controller. It's very simple to increase the strength of brake pedal response when
road conditions change abruptly. The synchronization feature satisfies my needs.

I've seen the new Jordan Controller. Their latest model appears to be closely comparable to the
Drawtite.

Here's my October 2000 posting: 
 
I just swapped out our Jordan Research Brake Controller (less than $75). I bought it four years ago
at an Airstream Rally near their factory in Sarasota, Florida. Although it worked well, I didn't
like where they positioned the sliding bar (in back behind the unit) to increase or decrease power
to the brakes. I did like where the digital read out was positioned. 

A second thing I didn't like about the Jordan Controller was how they synchronized power to the
brakes. It never quite lived up to my expectations for getting the power flow to gradually, but
quickly increase smoothly. The brake controller worked correctly, but I wanted a clear sign that the
Airstream brakes came on first before the truck brakes.

These few features about the Jorday were nagging annoyances to me. They might not be of any
significance to someone else. And, quite possibly, the knack for getting optimal use from the
controller never jelled in my thick skull. Anyhow, the opportunity to change presented itself and I
grabbed it.

It's now October 2000. I've been using a DrawTite Activator II (less than $100) for only a month. 
The installation was straight forward with clear printed directions in the box. I'm very satisfied
with all the features, but especially the synchronization capability. 

And, oh yes, by the way, it has a lifetime warranty if you send in the paperwork. I like that kind
of warranty. I'm good at keeping track of the paperwork and being ready to hold a company's feet to
the fire, if need be. 

Terry
mailto:Airstream.net