Mystery Item

[Luftstrom]

I need help identifying the item in the picture below. It is some kind of coil connected to two blue wires. The coils is mounted in an old and rusty intermatic sprinkler timer box so I think this was an after thought by a PO. The box is mounted next to where the umbilical enters our 1971 Sovereign and the blue wires lead inside. I have tried tracing where they go but no luck.

What is it ? Can I get rid of it or replace it with something less obtrusive ?

Thanks for any help, hints etc.

Michael

[Excella CM]

That is probably a votage dropping resistor for the trailer brake system. They were usually mounted in the tow vehicle. Obsolete technology now.

[idroba]

Yes, a brake resistor for very old brake controllers. You can eliminate it and just hook your brake wires directly to the tow vehicle and use a modern electronic brake controller.

[Aviator]

IF you need another, I too say it is the old brake resistor.

[garry]

X4....brake resistor.

[wahoonc]

Yup brake resistor, interesting mounting point though... Mine was under a cover inside the trailer behind the gaucho. I have also seen them mounted under the hood on older cars and trucks.

Aaron

[Luftstrom]

Thanks, everybody. One mystery down, many more to go.

It's coming off tomorrow.