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Joe78's avatar
Joe78
Explorer
Jul 07, 2017

Brake Controller Hookup

Hello,

I'm trying to hookup my brake controller before I pick up my camper tomorrow morning. This brake controller was previously hooked up in the truck but I removed it about a year ago. Last night, I was removing the 6 pin connections and replacing them with the 7 blade RV connections.

In testing the new connector (truck side), I noticed that when applying the brakes, I do get a 12v signal on the electric brake pin but then when releasing the brake the 12v signal remains. I had to disconnect the brake controller to get the 12v signal to go away.

I hooked the brake controller back up, I had no voltage on the electric brake pin, pushed the brake pedal and the 12v signal came and remained.

Is this normal, without a trailer hooked up? Maybe I am over analyzing this. If not, I am going to get a new brake controller today.

Thanks in advance.

4 Replies

  • Joe78's avatar
    Joe78
    Explorer
    Jul 10, 2017
    Hello BarneyS, I'm using an older Odyssey controler.

    I towed the camper home yesterday and as ScottG suggested, the always on 12v was fine. The brakes weren't always on like I was afraid they were going to be, so it must have detection signal as ScottG said.

    Thanks to both of you for the help.
  • BarneyS's avatar
    BarneyS
    Nomad
    Jul 07, 2017
    The Tekonsha series of controllers (Prodigy etc.) will remain on for about 5 minutes or so after shutting down the truck. Then, after it turns itself off, it will remain in the off mode until the truck is started and the brake pedal is pushed again.

    I think your brake controller is doing what it is supposed to do. It would help if you would post the make and model of the controller you are installing.
    Barney
  • Joe78's avatar
    Joe78
    Explorer
    Jul 07, 2017
    ScottG wrote:
    Probably OK. The controller sends out a weak signal to check that the brakes are present and not shorted. While you may see 12V, the current behind it will be very weak.


    Good to hear, thanks!
  • ScottG's avatar
    ScottG
    Nomad
    Jul 07, 2017
    Probably OK. The controller sends out a weak signal to check that the brakes are present and not shorted. While you may see 12V, the current behind it will be very weak.

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