Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Manual⁚ An Overview

The Redarc Tow-Pro Elite manual provides comprehensive guidance for users of this electric trailer brake controller. It covers installation, operation, and troubleshooting, ensuring safe and effective braking. The manual details the two operational modes, proportional and user-controlled and explains the active calibration process. It also provides information on periodic maintenance and support.

The Redarc Tow-Pro Elite is an advanced electric trailer brake controller designed to suit a wide range of towing applications. This unit is engineered for seamless integration into modern vehicles, offering both proportional and user-controlled braking modes. It distinguishes itself with its compact design and ease of installation, minimizing dashboard space requirements. The Tow-Pro Elite’s primary function is to provide smooth and reliable braking for trailers, caravans, and other towed vehicles, ensuring safety and control in diverse driving conditions. It’s designed to work with both electric and electric/hydraulic brake systems, automatically detecting the type without the need for user intervention. This device is particularly beneficial for drivers who regularly tow, offering a significant improvement in braking performance compared to traditional systems. The Tow-Pro Elite is designed to be compatible with most common trailer braking systems and is suitable for trailers with up to three axles. The user interface is designed to be simple and intuitive. Redarc has also included software upgrades to facilitate smoother braking, a critical feature for a variety of towing scenarios.

Tow-Pro Elite V3 Features and Improvements

The Tow-Pro Elite V3 represents the latest iteration in Redarc’s award-winning Tow-Pro series, incorporating several key features and improvements over previous models. A significant enhancement is the reduced size of the user interface, which streamlines installation and minimizes dashboard clutter. The V3 model also boasts continual software upgrades, resulting in smoother braking performance across a wider spectrum of trailers, from caravans to boat trailers and horse floats. These software improvements contribute to a more refined and responsive braking experience, particularly beneficial when towing heavy loads. The upgraded software also enhances the responsiveness of the braking system, offering a more controlled and predictable braking experience. Additionally, the V3 maintains the core functionality of the Tow-Pro Elite, including the ability to switch between Proportional and User-Controlled modes, catering to diverse driving environments. The design of the V3 maintains the ease of installation and operation of its predecessors. The V3 has been designed to work with a wide range of modern vehicles, ensuring compatibility with advanced vehicle safety systems. These changes make the V3 an ideal choice for drivers seeking an advanced and reliable brake controller.

Operating Modes⁚ Proportional and User-Controlled

The Redarc Tow-Pro Elite offers two distinct operating modes⁚ Proportional and User-Controlled, catering to diverse driving conditions and user preferences. Proportional mode, also known as inertia sensing mode, is ideal for highway driving. In this mode, the braking force applied to the trailer is automatically adjusted based on the deceleration of the towing vehicle. This allows for smooth, synchronized braking, making it safer and more comfortable to drive. The system senses the deceleration rate and applies the corresponding braking force to the trailer. User-Controlled mode offers greater flexibility, particularly for off-road driving. In this mode, the user manually adjusts the braking force applied to the trailer, providing more direct control over the braking system. The driver has the ability to set the desired amount of braking force based on the terrain and other factors. The Tow-Pro Elite starts in Proportional mode initially. The last selected mode is remembered the next time a trailer is connected. Switching between modes requires the vehicle to be completely stopped. The system is designed to operate both electric and electric/hydraulic braking systems without needing user input.

Installation⁚ Mounting the Main Unit and Remote Head

The installation of the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite involves mounting both the main unit and the remote head within the vehicle cabin. The main unit, which houses the core electronics, should be securely mounted using M4 screws or other suitable methods to the provided mounting points. It’s crucial to select a location that allows convenient access to the intended remote head position and does not interfere with other vehicle components. The unit can be mounted in any orientation as long as it is securely fixed. The remote head, designed for easy user access and control, is intended to be mounted on or around the vehicle dashboard. This allows for convenient adjustments of braking force and mode selection while driving. This separation of the control from the main unit allows for a neat installation without impeding lower leg airbags or driver legroom. The remote head should be positioned in compliance with Australian Design Rule guidelines. The remote head connects to the main unit via a provided RJ45 cable.

Wiring the Brake Controller⁚ Key Connections

Wiring the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite requires careful attention to several key connections to ensure proper functionality and safety. The brake light terminal of the trailer lighting socket is often used for connection, however it may not be suitable for all vehicles, and Redarc does not provide specific vehicle OEM wiring recommendations. The system uses a 25A fuse or 30A circuit breaker to protect the vehicle’s electrical system. The unit connects to the vehicle’s 12V power supply and ground, and a dedicated wire for the brake light trigger, the system also connects to the trailer’s braking system. The wiring must be executed with proper gauge wiring, typically 3.0mm for the trailer brakes and 1.25mm for the brake light trigger and ground. Incorrect wiring can lead to malfunctions or damage, so it is critical to adhere to the included wiring diagrams in the manual. Utilizing a suitable wiring harness and ensuring secure connections, either through soldering or using appropriate connectors, is vital for reliable operation of the brake controller. It is also recommended to use Redarc’s Encapsulated Protection Device in modern vehicles with adaptive cruise control to prevent feedback into vehicle electronics.

Active Calibration Process

The active calibration process of the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite is a crucial step for proper operation. When the unit is initially powered, it needs to establish confidence in the vehicle’s direction of travel. Until this calibration is complete, the LED indicator will flash blue and green. Redarc recommends calibrating the unit without a trailer attached by simply driving a few miles. If calibrating with a trailer, the dial setting should be at 4 or less due to the potential for inconsistent braking during this phase. The active calibration system constantly monitors the vehicle’s direction, and it allows the Tow-Pro Elite to determine the direction of travel and how the vehicle is moving, ensuring the brakes function correctly. The calibration is continuous, occurring whenever the unit is powered and ready to operate. This ensures that the system is always working at optimal efficiency, adjusting to the vehicle’s movements and providing the best possible braking performance. The system is designed to provide smooth, consistent braking once calibrated.

Adjusting Braking Force and Settings

The Redarc Tow-Pro Elite allows users to adjust the braking force to suit varying trailer loads, braking requirements, or personal preferences. This adjustment is done via the control knob on the remote head. The lower end of the scale, below level 5, is recommended as a starting point. Users should adjust the braking force once braking requirements are established. It is important to note that the braking force can be adjusted in both proportional and user-controlled modes. The visual user guide indicates lighter or heavier trailer brake force as the knob is adjusted. When the brakes are applied, the LED indicator will light up, providing visual feedback. The Tow-Pro Elite is also designed to operate both electric and electric-hydraulic braking systems without requiring user input to select the mode, making it versatile and adaptable to different trailer types. This ensures consistent braking in varying conditions. The ability to fine-tune the braking force ensures driver comfort and safety for any given driving situation.

Troubleshooting and Fault Indications

The Redarc Tow-Pro Elite features sophisticated diagnostics to alert users to potential issues in the vehicle and trailer brake wiring. These faults are indicated through a series of color-coded flash patterns on the LED indicator. It’s crucial to recognize that these fault indications should never be ignored as they serve as a warning. Many faults can be attributed to simple issues, such as a poor connection from a dirty trailer socket, but it is essential to investigate them promptly. The LED indicator will display different color patterns to signify the various types of faults that may occur. This system allows users to quickly identify the problem and take the necessary actions to rectify the issue. By understanding these visual cues, users can efficiently troubleshoot the unit and ensure the braking system is functioning safely. The manual provides detailed information on these fault codes.

Periodic Maintenance and Checks

Regular maintenance and checks are crucial to ensure the continued safe and effective operation of your Redarc Tow-Pro Elite. It is recommended that a qualified technician inspect the trailer system periodically, ideally before the start of each holiday season, or more frequently if you tow regularly. These checks should encompass the entire trailer braking system, including the Tow-Pro Elite unit, wiring connections, and the trailer brakes themselves. The aim is to ensure all components are functioning correctly and there are no signs of wear or damage that could compromise safety. Specifically, connections to the trailer socket should be inspected for corrosion or loose wires. The manual details that regular maintenance is vital to prevent system failures, which could occur during critical towing situations. Regular checks help identify potential problems early, allowing them to be addressed before causing significant issues.

Warranty and Support Information

Redarc provides a two-year product warranty for the Tow-Pro Elite, reflecting their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use conditions. In the unlikely event that a technical issue arises with your Redarc product, the company encourages customers to first contact their Technical Support Team for efficient diagnosis and product support. You can reach them via phone, and their team is ready to provide assistance and guidance. The warranty does not cover damage caused by improper installation, misuse, or alterations to the device. It is important to retain proof of purchase to validate warranty claims. For specific details regarding the warranty coverage, it is always recommended to refer to the official Redarc documentation or website. Redarc also offers a range of support resources including user manuals and FAQs, to aid users in understanding their product and resolving common issues.