Electric Trailer Brakes Not Working on 2002 Ford Excursion but Work w/2003 Ram with Same Controller

Updated 06/24/2016 | Published 06/23/2016

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Pollak Metal 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Socket - Vehicle End

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12 Gauge Wire - Black Primary - Per Foot

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Question:

I hook my camper to my 2002 excursion and I have light but my electric brakes dont work and then I hook it to my 2003 ram 1500 and they work and Im using the same controller

asked by: Benjamin H

Expert Reply:

It is possible that on your 2002 Ford Excursion the output wire (blue on the controller) is not connected to the trailer connector at the back. You can test this by testing the 7-Way pin in the 5 o'clock position with a circuit tester such as # PTW2993 or a meter while someone sits in the vehicle and fully applies the manual override.

If no power shows on that brake output pin, then the likely cause is that the connection is not complete from the controller to trailer connector. This could happen if the 7-Way on the Excursion was an aftermarket add-on that wasn't wired completely. If you follow the wires from the back of the 7-Way forward under the vehicle they will lead to a second connector.

Forward of this second connector you can peal some of the loom back to reveal a blue wire. If you perform this test again and get power at that blue wire then you can run a length of wire such as # 12-1-1, sold by the foot, from that blue wire to the back of the 7-Way and attach it in the 7 o'clock position.

It is also possible that some dirt or corrosion is interfering with the signal. Make sure the trailer connector is clean and free of corrosion inside and out. I have included links to a few help articles with additional information on testing and troubleshooting.

expert reply by: Michael H