Can the Tekonsha P3 Brake Controller Be Wired to an On/Off Switch

Updated 04/09/2015 | Published 04/08/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6648)

$154.20

12 Gauge Wire - Black Primary - Per Foot

(30)

$2.01

Derale Lighted On/Off Switch for Electric Fans

(4)

$6.15

Question:

I purchased a Tekonsha P3 from etrailer.com for a previous vehicle and used the quick release bracket to remove it when I wasnt towing. I now plan to install it permanently in my new to me vehicle 2011 Nissan Frontier. I have purchased the connector to run from the Nissan factory tow harness to the brake controller. I do not want the brake controller powered up when I am not towing. Is there any reason I cannot wire an on/off toggle switch to interrupt the black wire on the connector for this purpose? If I can install such a switch, will a 20 amp switch and 12 gauge wire suffice? Thanks.

asked by: Matt

Expert Reply:

If you wanted the ability to cut all power to your Prodigy P3 Brake Controller part # 90195 you easily could do this by running a switch on either the power (black), or ground (white), wire although it is not recommended. For a switch you could use the # D16740 and then for 12 gauge wire you could use the # 12-1-1 sold by the foot. This isn't recommended as you'd lose all presets when you cut power to the controller and have to start over every time.

For the permanent mount bracket for the P3 you would want the part # TK5904.

expert reply by: Jameson C