Hitch and brake controller recommendations for Excursion/28' Safari

PWRSTRK · 07-03-2004, 05:47 PM

We picked up our new Excursion PSD 6.0 last week and next week will finalize our choice of a 28' Safari trailer w/slideout.

I've never pulled a trailer this heavy and welcome advice on choices for a hitch and brake controller combo that makes the most sense. I'm willing to buy the Hensley hitch if it's advisable but would rather not if it's a waste of money over some of the other alternatives. Likewise with brake controllers.

Also, what do others recommend about installation of the hitch? Have Airstream dealer do it or another shop? Likewise on the controller?

Thanks a lot...

PWRSTRK
Tom and Frank
Chicago

**wahoonc** · 07-03-2004, 06:01 PM

Welcome to the forums!

Hitches and brake controllers are like opinions...everybody has one

My PERSONAL preferences are the Prodigy and the Equalizer Hitch
As far as the dealer installing...Good luck! Some dealers are compentent and others not. I am hard headed and installed my own, buddy of mine had his hitch installed by the same dealer I bought mine from and it was done incorrectly. Personally I feel that the Hensley would be overkill for the rig you have. JMHO

Aaron

87MH · 07-03-2004, 07:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PWRSTRK

...what do others recommend about installation of the controller?

Tom and Frank:

Do a search here on the Forums for a Jordan Controller.

I really prefer the progressive control and power to brake readout.

Like your tow vehicle, trailer, and hitch, you have multiple manufacturers of quality equipment to choose from. Do a bit more homework, and the best "fit" for your purposes will fall into place.

America...what a great place.

johnbaker · 07-03-2004, 07:52 PM

Tom and Frank,

Last year in May, we were in Branson Missouri for a Hensley Hitch rally. A “Tech Session” given by Master Brake (the manufacturer) presented a general discussion including history; evolution and safety in towing trailers then went on to describe the system his company produces.

Of the two previous controllers (the last was a Prodigy) both units relied on inertia, which sensed motion then applied electrical impulse to the trailer. We were constantly adjusting the gain for city, highway or hills to be more or less aggressive as needed. In panic situations I was reaching to override whenever I needed to brake hard.

The Brake Smart controller has a sensor that measures the tow vehicles brake pressure and then applies the correct pressure to each axle on the trailer. I never need to adjust or override.

Our tow vehicle is a 2003 Excursion 6.0 diesel. I ordered the unit in the color to match my interior. Whenever I am at the Car Wash, Dealership or anyone that is servicing the Excursion, I always get a lot of questions compliments and admirers. I always give their the web address: http://www.masterbrake.com/

Hope this is helpful

johnbaker · 07-03-2004, 08:16 PM

Tom and Frank,

The slide adds approximately at least 1000 lbs to your hitch.

I have a Hensley Hitch and love it but do your homework, check out the forum, talk to Hensley, the Airstream corporation or go to an R.V. Show and ask questions. Everyone (including me), has an opinion.

Tin Hut · 07-03-2004, 08:20 PM

John, I'm considering the Brakesmart. Was it easy to install or is there a local installer you'd recommend. Thanks.

Quote:

Originally Posted by johnbaker

Tom and Frank,

Last year in May, we were in Branson Missouri for a Hensley Hitch rally. A “Tech Session” given by Master Brake (the manufacturer) presented a general discussion including history; evolution and safety in towing trailers then went on to describe the system his company produces.

Of the two previous controllers (the last was a Prodigy) both units relied on inertia, which sensed motion then applied electrical impulse to the trailer. We were constantly adjusting the gain for city, highway or hills to be more or less aggressive as needed. In panic situations I was reaching to override whenever I needed to brake hard.

The Brake Smart controller has a sensor that measures the tow vehicles brake pressure and then applies the correct pressure to each axle on the trailer. I never need to adjust or override.

Our tow vehicle is a 2003 Excursion 6.0 diesel. I ordered the unit in the color to match my interior. Whenever I am at the Car Wash, Dealership or anyone that is servicing the Excursion, I always get a lot of questions compliments and admirers. I always give their the web address: http://www.masterbrake.com/

Hope this is helpful

**jcanavera** · 07-03-2004, 08:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PWRSTRK

We picked up our new Excursion PSD 6.0 last week and next week will finalize our choice of a 28' Safari trailer w/slideout.

PWRSTRK
Tom and Frank
Chicago

Tom & Frank,

Double check your receiver on your new Excursion and make sure it will carry weights in excess of 1000 lbs. My 3/4 ton GMC Savana van's factory receiver was not sufficent to carry the weight of my Classic slide out. I upgraded to a class V Hidden Hitch rated for 1,400 lbs.

Anyone looking for a brand new receiver for a '03 GMC or Chevy van let me know. Its sitting in my garage looking for a home.

Regards,

Jack

johnbaker · 07-03-2004, 09:45 PM

Tin Hut,

The Manufacturer is located here in Dallas near Royal Lane @ Denton Drive, since I live within 5 miles, I made arrangements to have the factory do the installation. I believe it took them about 45 minutes. It wasn't that expensive and I was sure to have the job done correctly. If your mechanically inclined, this installation may be easiy for you. Their staff is very knowledgeable, they can assist and answer any questions you have or give any technial assist to you or an installer in your area.

Their information: Master Brake Systems
11210 Ables Lane
Dallas, TX 75229
972-241-0164

Regards,

JohnG · 07-03-2004, 09:59 PM

I like the Equalizer Hitch and prefer the Jordon 2020 Ultima brake controller.

James Schmidt · 07-06-2004, 04:20 AM

I have used a Hensley for over two years and love it. I used another type hitch and was bothered by big trucks and cross winds. No more trouble now. I installed it myself and it is no big problem it you are handy with tools and such. I also installed one for a friend. The down side is that they are very expensive, but in my opiion, is worth every penny. I feel that it is much safer than what I was using. Please note that I use an Expedition and it has a shorter wheel base than your Excursion. The Prodigy controller completes the package.
You will find lots of different opinions so you just have to make up your own mind as to what is best for you.
Good luck,

PWRSTRK · 07-08-2004, 02:29 PM

I ordered the Brakesmart directly from the company yesterday afternoon and it arrived this morning at 9:30. These people were VERY helpful, and while the unit is not cheap, I'm told it's outstanding (thank you John) and I'm having it installed locally tomorrow afternoon.

In the meantime, after hearing everything from anyone asked about every hitch in the world, I swallowed hard and ordered the Hensley. I decided to do it right the first time with no room for error. When spending roughly $50k for a trailer and $50k for a truck, I think the protection is worth it. I'll provide feedback in a few weeks after our first trip.

Tom

RivetED · 07-08-2004, 02:46 PM

I've seen John's set-up, the brake controller is impressive.

85MH325 · 07-08-2004, 04:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PWRSTRK

I ordered the Brakesmart directly from the company yesterday afternoon and it arrived this morning at 9:30. These people were VERY helpful, and while the unit is not cheap, I'm told it's outstanding (thank you John) and I'm having it installed locally tomorrow afternoon.

In the meantime, after hearing everything from anyone asked about every hitch in the world, I swallowed hard and ordered the Hensley. I decided to do it right the first time with no room for error. When spending roughly $50k for a trailer and $50k for a truck, I think the protection is worth it. I'll provide feedback in a few weeks after our first trip.

Tom

Tom... I have to reiterate Jack's thoughts about your Excursion. I have a 2000 Ex and it's only rated to 1,000 lbs tongue weight. Your slide model will be pushing and probably exceeding the limits of the Ex's factory receiver hitch. My guess is that you'll need to upgrade your receiver. Check your weights carefully. Don't max out your receiver. A brand new $50k trailer going down the road all by itself attached to a flailing receiver that's not attached to anything ain't a pretty sight!

Roger

**jcanavera** · 07-08-2004, 05:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 85MH325

Tom... I have to reiterate Jack's thoughts about your Excursion. I have a 2000 Ex and it's only rated to 1,000 lbs tongue weight. Your slide model will be pushing and probably exceeding the limits of the Ex's factory receiver hitch. My guess is that you'll need to upgrade your receiver. Check your weights carefully. Don't max out your receiver. A brand new $50k trailer going down the road all by itself attached to a flailing receiver that's not attached to anything ain't a pretty sight!

Roger

Yep the Hensley does you no good if the receiver is dragging on the ground. I found 2 class V hitches in my search. One was the Reese Titan which is rated 1,700 lbs. It has a 2 1/2 inch box which means you will need an adapter to get it down to 2 inches. The other receiver and the one I bought was a Hidden Hitch. It's rated 1,400 lbs and has a 2 inch box. No adapter necessary.

Jack