Weak Brake Output Signal on Pilot Trailer Brake Controller, 1998 Chrysler Town and Country

Question:

I have a 98 town and country mini van and a reese pod control box. I put the ground on the frame and get a red light . I test the blue wire but get no signal well tester light at all. The light goes on and off with the brake pedal. I had the ground at the battery at first and had a green light . When I applyed the brake I would get a light red light but the just a little electric at the blue. But when I tested the wire about 2 feet down the wire I had nothing . What is the problem?

asked by: Todd

Expert Reply:

When installing a brake controller like the Pilot # 80550, you should always ground the controller to the negative battery terminal to ensure a good ground. I would start with making that change. Next, you will want to go back and set up the brake controller as if it was the first time. If the power levels are not set correctly, it will not perform correctly.

Test it again using the brake pedal a few times, and test again using the manual override. If the brake controller is getting power from the battery and it is ground properly, the signal will go through fine using the manual override, unless there is a problem with the internal circuitry of the brake controller.

If the signal is not present or sufficient using the brake and the levels are set correctly, there could be a problem along the red wire to the brake controller. Check the connection at the brake switch. The red wire needs to be attach to the brake switch wire that shows a signal only when the brake pedal is pressed.

If everything with the controller is connected and adjusted properly, there could be a problem with the trailer connectors or brake magnets. A dirty trailer connector could cause any number of problems. Clean out any dirt or corrosion from the vehicle and trailer side connectors. Make sure the ground wires for each are attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces.

Finally, check the brake magnets. They, too, should be attached to clean and corrosion free metal surfaces. If you can see the windings on the brake magnet, then the magnets will need to be replaced.

expert reply by: Michael H