RE: [A/S] Re: Swinging on the Ball / brake controller mounting

["David & Bret" <dtbw_1999@xxxxxxxxx>]

It is possible to mount a controller where it can be reached without looking
down or reaching forward.  Among the things I like about the Jordon is the
fact that the manual button STICKS WAY ABOVE the front plane of the
controller, it is BIG button and the controller is physically small (ie
making for more mounting options).  I was able to mount mine just below the
instrument cluster near the top of the panel that wraps under the dash (ie
just to the left of where the steering column enters the dash).  This put it
within easy reach (no further than any other control on the dash), at an
angle so that the button pointed up and not obscured by the dash or anything
else.  As the button extends above the case, it is a no-brainer to located
and push.  While a fan of the BrakeSmart unit (& probably what will
eventually replace my Jordon), I do think that Jordon has a MUCH better
design on the manual button (the BrakeSmart manual button is flush with the
case.looks nice, but not as user accessable).  As I posted previously, being
able to find and activate the manual button without reaching or looking down
was the primary factor behind my choice of mounting location.  I know that
many tow vehicles don't offer a perfect mounting location and many
controllers simply aren't designed to facilitate emergency use of their
manual controls, but if more thought was put into the potential need to
actually use the control and drivers ensured that they adjusted their seats
so as to reach all the various controls on the dash, including the brake
controller, I bet the majority of controllers could be mounted in a more
optimal location.  

 

BTW, I routinely practice pressing the manual button while towing just to
develop the reflex reaction that might someday save my tailend (pun
intended) and I totally agree that the last thing anyone needs to be doing
while towing, let alone an emergency situation, is looking down or even
thinking about how to activate the trailer brakes (that is why I advocate
automatic, yaw based activation of the trailer brakes).  If MasterBrake
(manufacturer of BrakeSmart controllers) would offer such a system, I would
ditch the Jordon in an instant.  

 

David