Replacement for Malfunctioning Draw-Tite Activator Trailer Brake Controller

Updated 07/10/2020 | Published 03/17/2018

Question:

My Drawtite Acrivator II works intermintily while driving. I have the controller set at 3.0 for my break setting. But while driving that number can jump all over the place or the controller will go to 0.0 no breaks at all the it will go back to the 3.0 setting then it works good for a while then it will go to 0.5 or 4.5 or back to 0.0. Is this a bad controller with a short I. It.. the controller is 17 years old. Thanks

asked by: Charles M

Expert Reply:

Based on your description of the problem with your Draw-Tite brake controller I suspect an internal fault within the controller itself.

There is a chance that the red input signal wire could be loose, and this would cause the unit to stop generating output, but it would not explain the varying power level displayed. That specific issue makes me think that the internal circuitry has finally given up the ghost and the controller needs to be replaced.

I recommend the # 5504 in its place. Your existing wiring adapter will still work.

expert reply by: Adam R

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Bill D.

7/6/2020

I have a Draw Tite Activator II and it is displaying a OL code when I put on the brakes and the trailer brakes do not engage. What does the OL code on the controller mean?

Chris R.

7/10/2020

The "OL" error message refers to an overload/short on the blue brake output wire. Inspect this wire from the controller back to the 7-Way for any exposed or damaged sections that need to be repaired. You can also inspect the 7-Way itself and clean out any debris or corrosion that might be built up inside the pins.