I am heading to the factory this weekend to pick up my new Scamp 13. We will be there on Monday. I opted for the electric brakes just to err on the side of caution. However, The installation of the brake controller on the tow vehicle will not happen now due to scheduling problems with Uhual. I will have the hitch and 7 way connector installed by the Subaru dealer (who is unable to install the brake controller). My question is: How crucial or detrimental is the brake controller for the 13 ft? I am towing with a Subaru Forester and plan on getting the controller in the future. Thanks for any assistance.
Wed, 08/13/2014 - 19:56
#1
Electric Brakes?
I just experienced the same issue with my Brake Controller.
In theory, I had the Brake Controller and the specific Cable for my Vehicle. Consequently, I expected a "Plug-N-Play" installation process (this was because I had previously identified the plug under the dash to install the controller into).
Well, things did not work out as planned !
I wound up at a local Ford Dealership to have them install my controller for me, it turns out that the plug I had previously identified was not the correct plug (even though it fit the Brake Controller harness). Fortunately, the Ford Technician was able to determine that the correct plug was taped to one of the wiring harnesses and had been hidden from my view.
From there it was a simple "Plug-N-Play" install for him !
That was my experience, now to answer your question...
Between now and Monday, and between home and the Scamp Hatchery, you will pass several U-Haul sites that can install the brake controller for you. Simply set an appointment at a U-Haul center near where you are spending the night (or somewhere along your route) and get there first thing in the morning. It will probably take only a couple of hours and you will be back on your way to pick up your new Baby and take her home SAFELY (think of your Brake Controller as a Car Seat for your New Baby).
As far as pulling it home without the Brake Controller, I would not suggest it. Your Forrester is not that heavy duty of a vehicle and your new Scamp weighs close to a ton, that is a lot of weight behind a smaller tow vehicle without brakes on the trailer (especially if hills are involved).
Stay Safe and
Happy Scamping !!!
As Always,
Happy Scamping !!!
I agree with ManWithaVan. There are plenty of locations that can do it before you leave Minnesota other than a U-Haul business too.
Thanks for the help. I was able to get the brake controller installed on friday. I am in Fargo ND now on my way to the factory to pick up the Camper tomorrow.
2012 Subaru Forester
Scamp 13 front Bunk
I picked my 13ft on Friday (make sure to ask for a t-shirt). I got the electric brakes and have the controller and I can tell you that you probably won't need or notice them at all just driving to Fargo. Nice and flat. I didn't notice them driving back to Rochester. I just watched the RPMs and didn't use cruise control.
Ill be driving to utah Via I-90. I should encounter some mountains
2012 Subaru Forester
Scamp 13 front Bunk
Oh yes you could! But it will be nice and flat between Backus and Utah. Have fun getting your camper!
After a very long five day round trip from Utah to the factory, My wife and i completed the shake down trip. I am glad i got the Electric brakes after all; the mountains and relentless winds through out Wyoming really took their tole. I think our best stip of the trip was Buffalo Wy at the KOA. Clean, friendly and lots of shade.
2012 Subaru Forester
Scamp 13 front Bunk
After reading these comments I'll get my 13' in for brakes--I've already got the controller--put that in when I was borrowing my cousin's for the summer. I've driven my new to me Scamp from IL to Estes Park and then to Indian Peaks Wilderness in the CO mountains with my Forester and didn't have any trouble without brakes, but I know I'll feel more comfortable when I get them--I like the child seat comparison. Thanks!
Barb,
The first step is to make sure the existing axle is equipped to add brakes. If it is, then it is not difficult and shouldn't be horribly expensive. If not, then the only way to add brakes is to change the axle which is prohibitive.
Keep us posted on what you find out and if you could share the estimate of what it would cost to add that would really help some folks that are thinking about adding brakes.
Our Trailers:
2015 19 Escape
Buying or Selling Molded FG Trailers:
Fiberglass-RV-4Sale
Is a place like Camping World good for things like this? I suppose they'd know what I've got and what I'll need.
Pages