Troubleshooting Brake Controller that Only works When Tested by Circuit Tester

Updated 07/07/2015 | Published 07/06/2015

Question:

my brake controller works when I put a test light into blue wire but that is the only time. wired incorrectly?

asked by: Pat K

Expert Reply:

Sounds like there is a short somewhere between where you tested the brake output circuit and the 7-way connection. Most likely this is a short on the wiring or corrosion on the 7-way. Inspect the wiring and 7-way and fix as necessary.

Brake controllers like the # 5504 can sense loads (like brake magnets) and that is when they know to start applying voltage when the brakes are applied. Since yours works when a load is put on the circuit that would indicate that the controller is functioning but the signal isn't making it to the 7-way.

expert reply by: Jameson C