Draw-Tite Activator Brake Controller Displays Output Voltage with No Trailer Connected

Updated 04/06/2015 | Published 04/04/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Activator IV Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 4 Axles - Time Delayed

(357)

$103.67

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(60)

$12.41

Question:

I hooked up my brake controller and every time i push the brake when not connected to trailer i see numbers and they jump around from 3 to 8 normally you shouldnt see any numbers untill it is hook up to trailer. Any ideas ?

asked by: Jon

Expert Reply:

If there is a short in the trailer connector or in the wiring between the brake controller and trailer connector, then it could think that there is a trailer connected. When this happens, it is usually because of a dirty or corroded trailer connector. Make sure your vehicle side trailer connector is clean and free of corrosion inside and out.

You can also inspect the wiring as best you can between the controller and the connector and look for any pinched, damaged, or frayed wires and fix as needed.

There is also some testing you can do to determine if the controller is the problem. In the truck cab you will need to sever the blue wire several inches from the back of the controller. Then use a circuit tester such as # PTW2993 to test the end of the blue wire coming out of the controller. It should only have power when you apply the manual override or brake pedal. If it shows power at idle, then there is something wrong with the controller and it will need to be replaced.

expert reply by: Michael H