Brake Controller Only Outputs 3.4 Volts With Controller Set to Max
Updated 07/13/2017 | Published 07/12/2017 >
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Should it be 12 volts and the current change or voltage change only? I only got 3.4 volts at 7 pin plug and output at controller connector on truck With full power on knob and slider
asked by: Terry
Expert Reply:
If you are testing the connector on your truck with the brake controller set to it highest setting and using the manual override then there is definitely a problem if you are only getting 3.4V.
You will want to start off by inspecting the connector on your truck. Look for any white or green looking residue as that can be corrosion. If that looks good then you will want to sever the Blue wire about 6 inches away from your brake controller and test it. If you are getting 12V at that point when using the manual override then you know that the brake controller wiring is the problem. You can either just run new wire or you can inspect your current wiring for any places where the wire is damaged, exposed, corroded, or even bent. Either way you will want to use 10 Gauge Wire # 10-1-1 and Butt Connectors # DW05745-5 to replace/rerun your wiring.
If you do not get 12V from the place where you severed the Blue wire then the problem is that your brake controller is shot and you will need a new one. If this is the case then I recommend going with the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195 as it is very easy to setup and use. If you have the connector under your driver's side dash on your 2006 Dodge Ram Pickup then you can use the Adapter # 3020-P as a plug-n-play option. Otherwise you will want to connect the wires from the pigtail as follows:
Blue - 7-Way on Truck
Red - Cold Side of Stop Light Switch
Black - 12V Power
White - Ground
Let me know if you use these troubleshooting steps and you are still experiencing problems and I can help you troubleshoot further.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Q&A: How Does Brake Controller Install in Tiffin Phaeton 40AH
- Q&A: Comparing Aluma-Tow Adjustable Ball Mount To B&W, etrailer, and Trimax
- Q&A: Recommended Trailer Wiring and Brake Controller for a 1999 Dodge Ram 2500
- Article: Towing a Trailer? Let's Talk About Brake Controllers
- Q&A: Can Redarc Tow Pro Liberty Brake Controller Install 2012 Toyota Sienna LE
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Q&A: How To Tell Apart 5,200 lb, 6,000 lb and 7,000 Axles
- Q&A: How To Turn Off The Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Brake Controller # 90195
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: Determining Trailer Tongue Weight
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Our Team Picked The Best Camping Gear of the Year - Here Are Their Top Choices
- Article: 5 Things to Know About Weight Distribution Hitches
