Testing a Brake Controller without a Trailer Connected to a 2014 Ford F-150 STX

Updated 09/14/2015 | Published 09/12/2015

Question:

Installing C74VV in 2014 Ford F-150 Stx sport 4x4 with factory 7 way trailer plug. Will be traveling to pick up trailer. How do I test at 7 way connector to know it is working BEFORE I leave to get trailer? I have test light and digital multimeter. Thank you

asked by: Bob

Helpful Expert Reply:

Basically, you will follow as much of the set up process as you can in the brake controller instructions. Once the controller is installed and the settings are adjusted for initial set up, set the power output to maximum.

With the power set to the max use your multimeter to test for voltage at the brake output pin on the truck's 7-Way connector. Someone will have to sit in the truck and apply the manual override on full while you are testing. You should be getting 11-12 volts.

Most newer proportional brake controllers have to sense movement to send power back with just the brake pedal pressed so to test that you would need a trailer connected. But if using a time delay controller such as # C74VV it should still send power back when you step on the brake pedal. I have also linked an article that will help. Some parts of it you can ignore because it references having a trailer connected.

expert reply by: Michael H