Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ Proportional Brake Controller Review

Let’s Talk About Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ Proportional Brake Controller

Towing a trailer is no joke. It demands respect for the road and the equipment you’re using. That’s why, after years of relying on older brake controllers, I decided to upgrade to the Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ Proportional Brake Controller. This isn’t just another electronic gadget; it’s a crucial piece of safety equipment promising smoother, more controlled braking for medium and heavy-duty trailers. Hayes aims to blend the responsiveness of their earlier Energize III model with the extra power and control of the XPC line in a single unit.

My primary reason for seeking out the Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ was to address the jerky, unpredictable braking I experienced with my old time-delay controller. I wanted a system that could sense my vehicle’s deceleration and apply the trailer brakes proportionally, offering a seamless and safer towing experience. The promise of an easy, peel-and-stick installation was also a definite plus, saving me from wrestling with complicated wiring diagrams and mounting hardware.

Upon unboxing, the Energizer III+ felt solid and well-built. The unit is compact, a definite improvement over some bulkier controllers I’ve used. Compared to my previous, basic time-delayed controller and a friend’s older inertia-based system, the Hayes unit appeared to be a more advanced and integrated design.

My initial excitement was high. The proportional braking, ease of installation, and reputation of Hayes products had me optimistic. I hoped this controller would provide the smooth, predictable braking I needed for my towing needs, particularly when hauling equipment for weekend camping trips.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ Proportional Brake Controller to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test run with the Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ involved towing a 24-foot travel trailer through a mix of city streets and highway stretches. I made sure to choose a day with varied traffic conditions to evaluate the controller’s responsiveness. The controller was quickly mounted using the included VHB tape, a surprising but effective method.

The Energizer III+ performed admirably in various conditions. During a sudden downpour, the proportional braking was especially appreciated. The trailer brakes engaged smoothly and predictably, preventing any skidding or swaying.

The Hayes unit was surprisingly intuitive. After a quick initial calibration, the controller felt almost invisible, seamlessly integrating with my vehicle’s braking system. The immediate improvement over my previous controller was noticeable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. I’ve towed my trailer over 3,000 miles with it, across diverse terrains from flat highways to steep mountain passes. There are no signs of fading or degraded performance.

The Energizer III+ has held up remarkably well to the rigors of regular towing. Despite being subjected to vibrations and temperature fluctuations, there are no visible signs of wear or tear on the unit itself. Maintenance has been minimal; I simply check the wiring connections periodically to ensure they remain secure.

The Hayes unit significantly outperforms my previous brake controller, offering smoother, more predictable braking in all conditions. The proportional braking system provides a much more confident and controlled towing experience, making long trips less fatiguing.

Breaking Down the Features of Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ Proportional Brake Controller

Specifications

• The Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ Proportional Brake Controller is designed for use with medium and heavy-duty trailers equipped with 2, 4, or 6 electric brakes. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of towing applications.

• It utilizes a 3-axis accelerometer to measure the tow vehicle’s deceleration rate. The accelerometer ensures that the trailer brakes are applied proportionally to the tow vehicle’s braking, resulting in smoother and more controlled stops.

• Installation is simplified thanks to the included VHB (Very High Bond) tape. This eliminates the need for drilling and screwing, allowing for a quick and clean installation process.

• The Energizer III+ provides both automatic and manual trailer braking capabilities. This dual functionality offers added safety and control in various driving scenarios.

• The unit provides 100% braking power in manual mode, allowing the driver to override the automatic system. This feature is particularly useful in emergency situations or when needing to stabilize the trailer.

Performance & Functionality

The Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ Proportional Brake Controller performs exceptionally well in providing smooth and controlled braking. The proportional braking system ensures that the trailer brakes engage smoothly and predictably, minimizing the risk of skidding or swaying.

The primary strength of the Energizer III+ lies in its ability to sense the tow vehicle’s deceleration and apply the trailer brakes accordingly. This results in a seamless and natural braking experience, unlike time-delay controllers that can feel jerky and unresponsive. The responsiveness of the unit is a significant improvement over older, more basic brake controllers.

The Energizer III+ meets and even exceeds my expectations. It provides a level of control and confidence that I didn’t experience with my previous brake controller. The ability to manually activate the trailer brakes is a valuable safety feature that gives added peace of mind.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ Proportional Brake Controller features a compact and streamlined design. The small size makes it easy to mount in various locations within the tow vehicle.

The build quality is excellent, with durable materials that can withstand the rigors of regular use. The unit feels solid and well-constructed. The Hayes unit is exceptionally user-friendly. The calibration process is straightforward, and the unit requires minimal adjustments once set up.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ Proportional Brake Controller is built to last. The durable materials and solid construction ensure that it can withstand the vibrations and temperature fluctuations associated with towing.

Maintenance is minimal. Periodically checking the wiring connections and ensuring that the unit is securely mounted is all that’s required. This simple maintenance routine contributes to the longevity of the unit.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ Proportional Brake Controller comes with the necessary mounting hardware, including VHB tape and installation instructions. The peel-and-stick installation method eliminates the need for additional tools or hardware.

While the Energizer III+ doesn’t offer extensive customization options, it is compatible with a wide range of standard trailer wiring harnesses. This compatibility ensures that it can be easily integrated with most tow vehicles and trailers.

Pros and Cons of Hayes 81742B Energizer III+ Proportional Brake Controller