Troubleshooting Trailer Connector Not Receiving Brake Signal On Gooseneck Trailer

Updated 11/29/2016 | Published 11/22/2016

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Hook Probe Circuit Tester

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Question:

Still not connecting , does it have a battery in it

asked by: Bill C

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are a couple things you can check to get the brake controller working with your gooseneck.

First you want to make sure the 7-way trailer connector is working correctly on your tow vehicle. Per the instructions Some factory wired tow vehicles disconnect the Battery Charge output in the 7-Way connector when the ignition is turned off. This will turn off the Power Module and the handheld Unit will display n.c. I have attached a drawing of the connector with a chart that shows how the connector pins should be wired.

To make sure all of the pins on the 7-way are receiving signal you can use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993. Have someone run through all of the functions while you use the tester.

Once the brake lights are working the RF can be paired and will receive the signal, and you can make the adjustments needed.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L

click to enlarge

Bill C.

11/22/2016

Still not connecting , does it have a battery in it

Jeffrey L.

11/29/2016

The RF brake controller does not have a battery. It uses the 12V signal through the 7-way trailer connector on your truck. You did not say what make and model truck you are towing with. On some of the newer Ford F-150s there is a problem with the trailer connector not receiving 12V current if there is no battery on the trailer. You also want to make sure the RF unit is mounted correctly(within 5 degrees horizontally). The sensor in the unit is not able to respond to the braking intensity if the unit is not level. You may try going through the pairing instructions and see if it winds up pairing even though you are not showing the right output. I have linked the installation instructions for you again. If you continue to have problems getting the system to pair or operate let me know and we will do more troubleshooting.