Hayman Reese Brake Controller User Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
This manual details the installation and operation of Hayman Reese brake controllers, essential for safe towing. It covers CompactIQ features, wiring for vehicles like the VW Amarok, and crucial safety checks.
Hayman Reese brake controllers are vital components for ensuring safe and controlled towing experiences. These devices regulate the braking force applied to your trailer, synchronizing it with your vehicle’s braking system.
They are designed for 1, 2, and 3 axle brake systems, offering versatility for various trailer types.
The range includes both proportional and time-activated controllers, catering to different towing needs and preferences. Hayman Reese has expanded its offerings with the CompactIQ, a proportional controller building upon the established Compact unit. Proper installation, as detailed in this manual – including specific wiring instructions for vehicles like the VW Amarok (WLL90004) – is paramount for optimal performance and safety. Always consult your vehicle and trailer owner’s manuals.
Understanding Proportional vs. Time-Activated Controllers
Hayman Reese offers both proportional and time-activated brake controllers, each operating on distinct principles. Proportional controllers, like the CompactIQ, apply braking force to the trailer in proportion to the vehicle’s deceleration. This results in smoother, more natural braking, especially beneficial for heavier trailers.
Time-activated controllers, conversely, apply a pre-set level of braking force for a specific duration when the brakes are applied. While simpler, they may not offer the same nuanced control as proportional systems. Choosing the right controller depends on your towing needs; proportional controllers are often preferred for frequent towing or varied loads. Understanding this difference is key to maximizing your brake controller’s effectiveness.
Hayman Reese CompactIQ: Features and Benefits
The Hayman Reese CompactIQ is a remote-mounted, proportional brake controller designed for 1, 2, and 3 axle brake systems. Its key feature is proportional braking, delivering smoother and safer stops by mirroring the vehicle’s deceleration. This advanced unit offers superior control compared to time-activated systems.
Benefits include easy remote mounting options, providing flexibility in vehicle placement. The CompactIQ is compatible with a wide range of vehicles and trailers. It boasts a user-friendly design and reliable performance, enhancing towing confidence. It’s a robust solution for those seeking a sophisticated and effective brake control system, ensuring optimal braking performance for various towing scenarios.
Installation Process
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance. This section details vehicle compatibility, wiring loom installation (like the VW Amarok WLL90004), and secure component mounting.
Vehicle Compatibility and Preparation
Before beginning installation, verify your vehicle’s compatibility with the Hayman Reese CompactIQ brake controller. Consult both your vehicle and trailer owner’s manuals for specific towing capacities and electrical system information. Ensure your vehicle’s electrical system is in good working order, including the trailer connector.
Locate a suitable mounting position for the brake controller, ensuring it’s accessible and doesn’t interfere with driving controls. Prepare the necessary tools, including a drill with a 25mm bit for potential grommet hole creation. Disconnect the vehicle’s negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts during the wiring process. Thorough preparation minimizes installation issues and ensures a safe, reliable setup.
Wiring Loom Installation (Specific to VW Amarok ⎯ WLL90004)
For VW Amarok installations using loom WLL90004, a 1200mm tail harness length is required. Carefully route the wiring loom, following existing vehicle wiring channels to avoid damage. Connect the brake controller plug according to the wiring diagram provided with the loom. Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated to prevent shorts or corrosion.
Pay close attention to the color coding of the wires, matching them precisely to the brake controller and vehicle’s electrical system. Secure the loom with cable ties to prevent it from moving or chafing. Double-check all connections before proceeding to the next step, guaranteeing a reliable electrical connection for optimal brake control performance.
Locating and Drilling Grommet Holes (Ø25mm)
When routing the power input harness, prioritize utilizing existing vacant grommet holes within the vehicle cabin. Thoroughly inspect the firewall for suitable openings. If no appropriate grommet exists, carefully select a location for drilling a new hole, ensuring it’s away from existing wiring, fuel lines, and structural components.
Using a Ø25mm drill bit, create a clean, precise hole. Deburr the edges of the hole to prevent damage to the wiring harness. Install a rubber grommet into the newly drilled hole to protect the harness from chafing and maintain a weatherproof seal. Route the power input harness through the grommet, ensuring sufficient slack for installation and future adjustments.
Connecting the Power Input Harness
After routing the power input harness through the firewall grommet, connect it to the vehicle’s power source. Typically, this involves identifying the vehicle’s battery or ignition power wire. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for precise wiring diagrams and color codes. Ensure a secure and reliable connection using appropriate connectors – soldering and heat shrink tubing are recommended for optimal conductivity and durability.
Carefully secure the harness to prevent it from becoming loose or damaged during vehicle operation. Avoid routing the harness near hot engine components or moving parts. Double-check all connections to confirm polarity and a firm fit before proceeding to the next installation step.
Operation and Settings
Proper operation involves initial setup, adjusting brake sensitivity and boost control, and understanding the LED indicator for optimal trailer braking performance and safety.
Initial Setup and Testing
Before towing, a thorough initial setup is crucial for safe operation. Begin by connecting the brake controller to the vehicle’s electrical system, ensuring all connections are secure as per the installation guide. Next, power on the controller and verify the LED indicator illuminates correctly.
Perform a static test: with the vehicle stationary and trailer connected, apply the trailer’s manual brakes. The brake controller should activate, and the LED indicator should reflect this. Then, slowly drive the vehicle at a low speed and gently apply the vehicle brakes. Observe the trailer brakes engaging proportionally.
Finally, consult both the vehicle and trailer owner’s manuals for specific recommendations and limitations. Always test brake control unit settings each time a trailer is attached to confirm proper functionality and adjust settings as needed for optimal performance.
Adjusting Brake Sensitivity and Boost Control
Fine-tuning the brake controller is vital for optimal performance. Sensitivity adjusts how quickly the trailer brakes respond to the vehicle’s braking. Start with a lower setting and gradually increase it until the trailer brakes engage smoothly and proportionally, avoiding harsh locking.
Boost control enhances braking power, particularly useful for heavier trailers or downhill descents. Increase boost incrementally, observing the trailer’s response. Excessive boost can lead to skidding, so cautious adjustment is key.
Regularly assess the settings with different trailer loads and road conditions. Remember, proper adjustment ensures safe and controlled towing. Testing brake control unit settings with each trailer attachment is essential for consistent performance.
Understanding the LED Indicator
The LED indicator on your Hayman Reese brake controller provides crucial system status information. A solid green light typically signifies normal operation – the controller is powered on and ready. A flashing green light often indicates the controller is receiving a brake signal from the vehicle.
Red or amber lights signal potential issues. A red light may indicate a fault in the trailer wiring or a brake malfunction. Amber suggests a low voltage condition or an issue with the connection to the trailer.
Regularly check the LED indicator during pre-trip inspections. Inspecting and adjusting connections can resolve many indicator-related problems, ensuring safe towing. Consult the full manual for a complete breakdown of LED codes.
Troubleshooting
This section offers solutions for common issues, including checking secure mounting, inspecting connections, and addressing LED indicator problems for optimal brake control performance.
Common Issues and Solutions
Issue: LED indicator not illuminating. Solution: Verify power input harness connection and fuse integrity. Check the brake controller’s power output and boost control settings.
Issue: Trailer brakes applying inconsistently. Solution: Adjust brake sensitivity and boost control settings. Ensure proper wiring loom installation, specifically for vehicles like the VW Amarok (WLL90004).
Issue: No brake response from the trailer. Solution: Inspect all connections, confirming secure mounting of components. Consult vehicle and trailer owner’s manuals for compatibility. Test brake control unit settings with each trailer attachment.
Issue: Excessive trailer braking. Solution: Reduce brake sensitivity and boost control. Verify compatibility with 1, 2, or 3 axle brake systems.
Checking Secure Mounting of Components
Regularly inspect the brake controller unit itself, ensuring it’s firmly attached to the chosen mounting location. Vibration during towing can loosen screws over time, potentially causing intermittent operation or damage.
Verify the LED indicator is securely fastened and visible, allowing for clear monitoring of brake activity. Check the power output and boost control modules, confirming they are stable and haven’t shifted.
Inspect the wiring loom, particularly where it passes through grommet holes (Ø25mm). Ensure it’s not pinched or strained, and that connections remain tight. A secure installation prevents shorts and ensures reliable brake function.
Periodically tighten all mounting hardware to maintain optimal performance and safety.
Inspecting and Adjusting Connections
Thoroughly examine all wiring connections, focusing on the power input harness and the brake controller plug. Look for signs of corrosion, loose wires, or damaged insulation. Ensure connectors are fully seated and locked into place.
Carefully inspect the wiring loom installation, particularly within the vehicle cabin and near the trailer connection. Verify that wires are properly routed and secured, avoiding sharp bends or contact with hot surfaces.
If any connections appear compromised, disconnect them, clean the terminals, and re-secure them firmly. A stable electrical connection is vital for consistent brake performance.
Double-check all adjustments made during installation, ensuring proper functionality before towing.
Safety and Maintenance
Regular inspection of the brake control unit, LED indicator, and connections is crucial for safe towing. Always consult vehicle and trailer manuals for testing procedures.
Importance of Regular Inspection
Consistent inspection is paramount for maintaining optimal braking performance and ensuring towing safety. Periodically check the brake control unit itself, verifying its secure mounting to prevent movement during travel.
The LED indicator should be examined for proper function, confirming it accurately reflects brake application. Critically, inspect all power output and boost control connections, ensuring they remain tight and free from corrosion.
Loose connections can lead to intermittent braking or complete failure. Furthermore, a visual assessment of the wiring loom for any signs of damage – chafing, cuts, or exposed wires – is essential. Proactive maintenance minimizes risks and extends the lifespan of your Hayman Reese brake controller.
Consulting Vehicle and Trailer Owner’s Manuals
Before installation and operation, thoroughly review both your vehicle and trailer owner’s manuals. These resources contain vital information regarding towing capacity, electrical systems, and specific recommendations for brake controller compatibility.
Your vehicle’s manual will detail any limitations or requirements related to aftermarket brake controller installation, including suitable fuse ratings and wiring locations. The trailer manual provides crucial data about its braking system – axle count, brake type, and electrical demands.
Always TEST your brake control unit settings each time a trailer is attached. Understanding these specifications ensures proper synchronization and maximizes braking efficiency, contributing to a safer towing experience.
Testing Brake Control Unit Settings with Each Trailer Attachment
Each trailer possesses unique braking characteristics; therefore, consistent testing is paramount for safe towing. Never assume previous settings are suitable for a newly attached trailer.
Begin with low-speed tests in a controlled environment, gradually increasing speed while applying the trailer brakes manually. Observe the trailer’s response – is it proportional to the vehicle’s braking? Adjust the brake sensitivity and boost control on the Hayman Reese controller accordingly.
Verify the LED indicator functions correctly, reflecting brake application intensity. Confirm the trailer brakes engage smoothly and evenly. Repeat testing under various load conditions to fine-tune settings for optimal performance and safety.
Advanced Features
Hayman Reese controllers offer remote mounting options and broad compatibility, supporting 1, 2, and 3 axle brake systems for versatile towing solutions.
Remote Mounting Options
The Hayman Reese CompactIQ brake controller excels with its remote mounting flexibility, allowing installation in locations convenient for the driver. This is particularly useful when dashboard space is limited or a more discreet setup is desired.
Users can position the controller within easy reach, ensuring comfortable access to adjustment controls. Secure mounting is paramount; utilize appropriate brackets and hardware to prevent movement during vehicle operation. Consider cable routing carefully to avoid interference with other vehicle systems.
Proper remote mounting enhances usability and maintains a clean, organized cabin appearance, contributing to a safer and more enjoyable towing experience. Always consult the full installation manual for specific guidance.
Compatibility with 1, 2, and 3 Axle Brake Systems
Hayman Reese CompactIQ brake controllers are engineered for versatility, seamlessly adapting to trailers with one, two, or three axles. This broad compatibility eliminates the need for separate controllers when towing different trailers.
The controller automatically adjusts braking force distribution based on the number of axles detected, ensuring optimal stopping performance for each load. Proper setup is crucial; always verify the axle configuration within the controller’s settings.
This feature simplifies towing logistics and provides peace of mind, knowing your braking system is appropriately calibrated for the specific trailer attached. Refer to the manual for detailed instructions on configuring axle settings.
Warranty Information
Hayman Reese brake controllers are backed by a comprehensive warranty, protecting against manufacturing defects. Details regarding coverage duration and claim procedures are outlined within this manual.
Hayman Reese Brake Controller Warranty Details
Hayman Reese provides a warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 24 months from the date of purchase. This warranty covers repair or replacement of the brake controller, at Hayman Reese’s discretion;
The warranty is void if the controller has been subjected to misuse, accident, modification, or improper installation. Proof of purchase is required for all warranty claims.
This warranty does not cover consequential damages, including costs associated with vehicle downtime or trailer repairs. Warranty service must be performed by an authorized Hayman Reese service center. Full warranty terms and conditions are available upon request or on the Hayman Reese website.