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Ron3rd's avatar
Ron3rd
Explorer III
Apr 03, 2014

Prodigy Issue

I've got the old original Prodigy brake controller, about 10 years old.
The issue I have, and it happened from time to time with my old trailer is after I've been towing for say, 1-2 hours on the freeway and when I get off the freeway, the trailer brakes are very "grabby", ie, they will almost throw you through the windshield when you stop at a light. I don't think it has anything to do with my new trailer as it happened from time to time with my old trailer. I've got the boost turn off, so I know it's not that. It only happens when I've been driving some distance on the freeway, and doesn't happen all the time. Any ideas?

8 Replies

  • RCMAN46's avatar
    RCMAN46
    Explorer
    Apr 04, 2014
    Ron3rd wrote:
    Thanks for all the advice folks. I checked into this and I've been running the gain way too high. I'll test it out on the next trip out. I don't think it's a brake problem because it's basically a new trailer and my old trailer did the same thing. My bad having the gain too high.



    Have you set up the controller as per the instructions? If you have then I am sure you have a brake problem or a defective controller. Lowering the gain from the setting determined during setup can be dangerous as you will not have adequate braking in an emergency situation.

    If you had the controller set up as per instructions with boost off and had the same problem on another trailer you may have a bad controller. Call Tekonsha and if they agree the controller is bad they will replace it under warranty. They are more than willing to help you correct your problem.
  • Ron3rd's avatar
    Ron3rd
    Explorer III
    Apr 04, 2014
    Thanks for all the advice folks. I checked into this and I've been running the gain way too high. I'll test it out on the next trip out. I don't think it's a brake problem because it's basically a new trailer and my old trailer did the same thing. My bad having the gain too high.
  • campigloo's avatar
    campigloo
    Explorer
    Apr 04, 2014
    Mine did that some too. Turned out it was just a matter of adjustment. As they wear, the shoes get too far from the drum. Might be a good time for some fresh grease and new seals too.
  • RCMAN46's avatar
    RCMAN46
    Explorer
    Apr 04, 2014
    I would say you have a brake problem. The Prodigy should not cause what you describe. It sounds like the brakes are engaging but do not release when the voltage to the magnets is reduced or removed.

    I would strongly suggest pulling the drums and check the mechanicals of the brakes. Also look for grease contamination on the brake shoes and if the shoes have worn evenly and if they were adjusted correctly..
  • Terryallan's avatar
    Terryallan
    Explorer II
    Apr 04, 2014
    On my old TT. I ran it at 7.4. On the new TT it is closer to 5.6.
    Per instructions. The starting point is 6.0. You would go up, or down from there.

    As for boost. That just gets the TT brakes started.
  • Ron3rd's avatar
    Ron3rd
    Explorer III
    Apr 04, 2014
    Thanks, that was what I was considering too. I'll back it off a bit and see if that cures it. It's set pretty high right now.
  • Terryallan's avatar
    Terryallan
    Explorer II
    Apr 04, 2014
    I'd say you have the gain set too high. If you set the gain / power, as soon as you pull out onto the road. The TT brakes are cold, as they warm up. They will work better / grab more. I believe all you need to do it lower the gain a little bit. It is best to warm the brakes before setting the power level.

    Mine does that as well. I just dial it back some.

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