Energize Trailer Brake Controller Does Not Work When Brakes Pressed, 2001 Ford F-250
Question:
red light comes on when slider arm is pushed but not when brakes depressed... would a malfunctioning brake controller have any effect on rear brakes of 2001 F250?
asked by: Mark B
Expert Reply:
It sounds like the problem you are experiencing is due to a bad or incorrect connect on the red wire on the brake controller. The red wire attaches to the stop light wire on the brake switch. Using a circuit tester like # 3808, find the wire on the brake switch that carries a signal ONLY when the brake pedal is pressed. If the wire carries a signal at any other time, like when the lights are on or turn signals engaged, it is not the correct wire.
Brake controllers are not tied into the braking system of the towing vehicle with the exception of getting the signal from the brake switch, so it should not affect the brakes on the towing vehicle. If something is connected wrong it would probably show as a warning lamp on the dash before it affected the brakes. The brake controller works with electric brakes while the brakes on your 2001 Ford F-250 are hydraulic.
