Hi all, thanks for the quick replies, appreciated.

Upallnight: yes the trailer should have brakes - will be doing a test run tomorrow. In fact most trailers on South african roads require it i think. However it is a mechanical brake, attached to the trailer hitch mechanism, so when you brake the trailer pushes forward and activates the brakes on the wheels.

Riggodeaux: thanks for your words. my vehicle is equipped with standard (OEM) hitch, does this mean i have a brake controller. What is a brake controller? What does it do? and how do i check if i have one already installed? (all wiring, etc on my tow-hitch electrics is standard)

LVP: will do buddy.

again thank you all
slow and steady, mind the gap, easy on the turns - got it!

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2015 F15 X5 3.0D
2008 E70 X5 3.0D
2001 E53 X5 3.0
2001 E46 318i