CURT 51170 Spectrum Integrated Electric Trailer Brake Controller Instruction Manual

1. Introducere

The CURT Spectrum trailer brake controller provides powerful brake operation while maintaining a clean, consistent OE look and feel on the dash of your vehicle. It is comprised of a main module and a separate user interface. This interface is a simple rotary knob with a push-button and ten tri-color LEDs to control and monitor all trailer brake activity. It also features a triple-axis accelerometer for highly responsive, smooth stops on any grade.

The separated module and interface of the Spectrum brake controller allow it to integrate with the vehicle unlike any other. The main module can be mounted behind the dash and completely out of sight. The separate rotary knob provides a sleek, subtle interface that mounts on the dash of the vehicle wherever desired. It features ten LEDs with three colors each (red, green and blue) to indicate trailer brake activity and power adjustment. The rotary knob and integrated push-button allow for simple and effective operation of the control settings and manual adjustment.

The Spectrum trailer brake controller offers superior safety and helps protect the life of your vehicle and trailer with its advanced triple-axis accelerometer. This integrated circuit detects the motion of the vehicle and trailer when making stops and applies the precise amount of brake power for maximum efficiency and effectiveness. The three axes of the circuit also enable the brake control to compensate when going up or down a hill. Like most CURT brake controllers, the Spectrum installs using one of our vehicle-specific quick plug harnesses. It also has automated leveling and calibration capabilities to simplify and speed up the installation process. The Spectrum trailer brake controller comes with mounting hardware for a complete installation.

2. Caracteristici cheie

• Factory Look: Designed to mount onto the dash and integrate with other controls like a factory brake controller, using a simple knob for control and monitoring. Compatible with low-volt, PWM, ABS, cruise control, and electric over hydraulic systems.
• Hidden Main Module: The computer module is separate from the control knob and can be mounted out of sight, maintaining a clean vehicle dash.
• Intelligent Braking: Features a triple-axis accelerometer that detects vehicle motion on three planes, applying precise braking power for smooth stops, even on inclines or declines.
• Easy Adjustment: Highly adjustable to accommodate various vehicles, trailers, and loads. The push-button knob provides easily accessible manual override.

3. Ce se află în cutie

The CURT 51170 Spectrum Electric Trailer Brake Controller package includes:

• Spectrum Main Module
• Rotary Control Knob with 10 Tri-Color LEDs
• Hardware de montare
• Wiring Harness (vehicle-specific quick plug harness may be required, sold separately)

Image: All components included with the CURT Spectrum brake controller, showing the main module, rotary knob, wiring, and mounting accessories.

4. Configurare și instalare

The CURT Spectrum brake controller is designed for straightforward installation, especially with vehicle-specific quick plug harnesses (sold separately). The main module can be hidden, and the control knob mounted conveniently on the dash.

4.1. Instalare terminatăview

1. Pregătiți vehiculul: Asigurați-vă că bateria vehiculului este deconectată înainte de a începe instalarea.
2. Mount Main Module: Select a discreet location behind the dash for the main module. It can be mounted at any angle. Secure it using the provided tape or zip ties.
3. Mount Control Knob: Choose a flat, easily accessible spot on the dash for the rotary control knob. Clean the surface with alcohol before applying the adhesive. Ensure the "down" arrow on the knob's base is oriented correctly.
4. Cablaj: Connect the main module to the vehicle's existing brake control wiring system. If your vehicle does not have a pre-existing tow package, refer to the wiring diagram in the product manual for detailed instructions on connecting to the battery and brake system.
5. Connect Control Knob: Plug the USB cable from the main module into the control knob. Route the cable to conceal it as much as possible.
6. Reconectați bateria: După ce toate conexiunile sunt securizate, reconectați bateria vehiculului.

4.2. Ghid vizual de instalare

Image: The dash-mounted rotary control knob integrated seamlessly into a vehicle's interior, providing an OEM-style appearance.

Image: A hand installing the main module discreetly behind the vehicle's dash, out of sight.

4.3. Video de instalare

5. Instrucțiuni de utilizare

The CURT Spectrum controller offers intuitive operation through its rotary knob and integrated buttons. The 10 tri-color LEDs provide visual feedback on brake activity and power adjustment.

5.1. Configurarea și calibrarea inițială

1. Pornire: Once installed and connected, the controller will power on with the vehicle's ignition.
2. Language & Brightness: Access the setup menu (if available via the knob) to adjust language and screen brightness.
3. Nivelare: With the trailer connected and the vehicle on level ground, perform the leveling calibration as instructed in the manual or on the device. This ensures accurate braking performance based on vehicle orientation.
4. Manual Brake Setting: Adjust the manual brake setting (Slow, Normal, Fast) to suit your preference and load. A "Slow" setting provides a gradual brake application, ideal for sensitive cargo.

5.2. Adjusting Brake Power and Boost

• Ajustarea câștigului: Use the rotary knob to increase or decrease the overall braking power (gain) applied to the trailer brakes. The display will show the current gain setting.
• Boost Settings: The controller offers multiple boost settings (B1-B9) to provide additional braking power at the initial application of the brakes. Higher boost levels are suitable for heavier trailers or when more aggressive initial braking is desired. The display will show the current boost level and an icon representing the type of trailer (single axle, double axle, triple axle).
• Anulare manuală: In situations requiring immediate trailer braking (e.g., to correct trailer sway), press the integrated push-button on the rotary knob to manually apply the trailer brakes. The intensity of this manual application is influenced by the manual brake setting.

5.3. Video operațional

6. Întreținere

The CURT Spectrum brake controller is designed for durability and minimal maintenance. Regular checks can ensure optimal performance:

• Inspecția cablajului: Periodically inspect all wiring connections for corrosion, fraying, or loose terminals. Ensure all connections are secure.
• Module Security: Verify that the main module and control knob remain securely mounted in their respective locations.
• Curăţenie: Keep the control knob and display screen clean and free of dust or debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
• Test de funcționalitate: Before each towing trip, perform a quick functionality test by connecting the trailer and checking that the controller powers on and responds to manual brake application.

7. Depanare

If you encounter issues with your CURT Spectrum brake controller, consider the following:

• Fără alimentare/afișaj:
  • Verificați conexiunile bateriei vehiculului.
  • Verify all wiring connections to the main module and control knob are secure.
  • Inspect vehicle fuses related to the tow package and brake controller.
• Incorrect Braking/No Braking:
  • Ensure the trailer is properly connected and detected by the controller.
  • Re-perform the leveling calibration on level ground with the trailer attached.
  • Adjust the gain and boost settings to appropriate levels for your load.
  • Check for fault detection messages on the display screen.
• Funcționare intermitentă:
  • Verificați toate cablurile pentru conexiuni slăbite sau deteriorări.
  • Ensure the main module is securely mounted and not subject to excessive vibration.

For further assistance, refer to the complete product manual or contact CURT customer support.

8. Specificații

Image: Diagram showing the approximate dimensions of the CURT Spectrum brake controller's main module and control knob.

9. Garanție și asistență

For detailed warranty information and customer support, please refer to the official CURT product documentation included with your purchase or visit the Magazinul CURT pe Amazon.