Community Forums

Redeagle001 · 03-29-2013, 03:55 PM

I have a 1997 American Eagle with air brakes. I have a 28ft. race car trailer with elect. brakes. I was told to hook up the controller I need power ground and a brake switch. I have no brake switch,the peddles are mounted on the floor. I looked in the pod and under the peddle and all I see is Green and Red air hoses. I can use all the help I can get.

Playtime III · 03-29-2013, 05:38 PM

You will need help from your manufacturer. On my Monaco with air brakes I had to find the correct brake signal wire in the fuse box that works the brake lamps. In my case it was reversed polarity so I had to add a relay to reverse it back. Monaco pre-wired the remaining (12VDC, Grd, Brake signal to trailer (4o'clock pin on the 7-way Hitch connector)), the pedal signal wire was positive until pressed then 0 VDC when pressed, thus the adding the wire between the fuse box and the brake controller (prodigy P3). For a lengthly explaination see my thread; "Recommended locations for brake controller mounting location")

Gary RVRoamer · 03-29-2013, 08:18 PM

Somewhere you have a brake light switch, I mean, there is something that switches the brake lights on when you push the pedal. It just doesn't happen to be on the pedal itself.

A 97 Eagle probably has a Spartan chassis, so maybe a call to Spartan would get a clue where to look? Or maybe even a call the American Coach first? There customer service is really excellent.

BFlinn181 · 03-29-2013, 08:32 PM

Even if you can't find the brake switch, you could tap into the wires that energize the brake lights on the back of the coach.

Playtime III · 03-30-2013, 08:34 AM

IF you opt to tap the brake light at the lens you need to know if your Exhaust Brake illuminates it as well. You might or might not want your trailer brakes coming on. You just need to be able to make an informed decision.

Eaglesview · 03-30-2013, 08:41 AM

Check out the Tekonsha RF brake controller. You would likely have to change the controller on the trailer.

I have it on my Dynasty with a trailer with electric brakes. Works very well.

Brake light activates the trailer brakes.

Completely portable to another tow vehicle.