I am installing my brake controller in preperation for my first time towing a TT on memorial day weekend. I am sure its going to be in the directions but can someone tell me the cliffs notes version on how to set it up correctly?
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The Prodigy is an accelerometer-based control it delivers power to the trailer brakes based on the deceleration it senses. Without boost this means that the tow-vehicle brakes have to initiate the braking for the combination of tow-vehicle and trailer. This works well with lighter trailers, however with a heavy trailer this puts an excessive strain on the tow-vehicle brakes.
One of the functions of boost is to eliminate this condition. When a boost setting is used, the Prodigy applies a minimum output to the trailer at the onset of braking to initiate deceleration. The level at which the power knob is set, determines what that initial output will be. Boost level 1 generates about 13% of power set for the first 2 seconds and boost level 2 and 3 generate about 25% of power set for the first 2 seconds. All levels reduce by 50% after 2 seconds when the braking system is generating enough deceleration of its’ own accord.
The remaining function of boost is to accommodate for the variables in the tow-vehicle and trailer brakes due to respective weights, number of axles, etc. Boost levels 2 and 3 each provide higher sensitivity to deceleration. This helps compensate and balance the braking between tow-vehicle and trailer.
The final setting is done by feel. The driver should not feel that the trailer is pushing him, or experience over-aggressive trailer braking.
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Setting the MAXIMUM voltage needs to be covered as well...
After you install the actual controller (as shown in the YouTube video)...the instructions direct you to start at ~6 volts (if I recall correctly) on the controller and then drive in a straight line (in a SAFE area) at ~25mph and apply full MANUAL prodigy braking via the lever on the controller...if you get lock up of the TT wheels...back off the voltage...if no lock up...raise the voltage and repeat.
The instructions tell you to set the MAXIMUM voltage to a level just below trailer wheel lockup on dry pavement.
Many heavier TT's may never get wheel lockup on dry pavement...mine never did so I run 12 volts...
Once I determined my level...I have NEVER changed it.
What I HAVE changed is the BOOST settings depending on where I am at.
Simply going 5mph in the campground...my 'normal' Boost2 (I need extra TT lead braking for my Hensley)...but it provides some tugging...not horrible...but to eliminate that...I simply reach down and toggle thru the Boost to turn it off...
Another time I'll change my Boost is decending a steep grade.
It always confused me what the differnce between Boost 2 and 3. BOTH state 25% MORE initial braking for 2 seconds...that didn't cut it for me...so I called Tekonsha Tech support and got this answer.
Boost 2 does in fact provide 25% more initial trailer braking for 2 seconds.
Boost 3 however provides 25% more initial trailer braking but for LONGER than 2 seconds...this however is NOT in the manual!!!
Once you get the Prodigy dialed in...voltage wise...I wouldn't mess with it...if the roads are slick...simply run one boost level lower is what I do...I've read on here too many people are constantly varying their voltage setting...
You need to understand that the voltage you set is the MAXIMUM the Prodigy CAN put out under any one braking situation...it doesn't ALWAYS put out the MAXIMUM...but it puts out a PERCENTAGE of that MAXIMUM for EACH and EVERY braking event.
For example...
In my case...I run 12V. I have to brake rather aggressively due to whatever reason...the Prodigy accelerometer determines my deceleration and applys say 75% of the MAXIMUM set voltage for that event...or 8Volts.
Now if I messed with my voltage and had it dialed down to say 8Volts MAXIMUM for whatever reason...that SAME event that calls for 75% of the MAXIMUM is NOW going to apply ONLY 6 VOLTS!!!...
In neither case did it call for MAXIMUM...but a reduced percentage of that set MAXIMUM...is that percentage of MAXIMUM enough to stop MY trailer?...don't know.
I do know that applying a FULL 12 volts manually at 25mph did NOT lock up my brakes on dry pavement...i.e. I followed the Tekonsha instructions...and I have NEVER messed with my voltage in the near 15,000 miles I've towed with the Prodigy thru ALL KINDS of roads and weather...
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