How to Install the Tekonsha PowerTrac Electronic Brake Controller

Helpful Expert Reply:

Unfortunately, Tekonsha does not really provide a wiring harness installation manual for their brake controllers as the installation will vary depending on vehicle. However, with that being said I will do my best to walk you through the installation below.

In order to install the Tekonsha PowerTrac Electronic Brake Controller part # 39523 you will want to use the Replacement Brake Control Plug-In Harness part # 20127. The black wire from the harness goes to the battery with a 20 amp circuit breaker like part # 9506P placed 6" from the battery. The red wire from the harness goes to the cold side of the brake pedal as you mentioned which is the wire that runs to the brake pedal and only receives power while the brake pedal is depressed. You will want to use a circuit tester like part # ALL640595 in order to find the correct circuit. The white wire from the harness will need to be attached to a clean, bare metal surface as this wire is responsible for the ground function. Finally, the blue wire from the harness is for the trailer brakes which will need to be ran to the rear 7-way trailer connector.

If you do not already have a 7-way trailer connector and the wires ran for the trailer brakes then you will also want to use the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller part # ETBC7. Depending on your vehicle, a plug in brake controller wiring harness may be available for you therefore I would need to know the year, make, and model of your vehicle in order to see if an option is available.

I have attached a few review/installation videos for you to check out as well.