Troubleshooting Brake Controller that Only Shows Connection When Coupler is On Hitch Ball
Updated 07/25/2018 | Published 07/24/2018
Question:
Why wont the green light come on with the 7 blade plug properly wired and attached ? without the RV trailer on the ball ? IT has a ground wire in the plug. -Using a Tekonsha Voyager brake control. All lights and brakes work fine on my dump trailer. green light also when just plugged in. Why would the brake controller not recognize the RV trailer ? Any suggestions ?
asked by: David H
Expert Reply:
If you can't get the trailer to show a connection unless the coupler is touching the hitch ball that means your trailer wiring has an insufficient ground. Sometimes if a trailer isn't grounded properly it will end up grounding through the hitch ball to the truck frame. Try improving the ground wire from the connector on your trailer to the trailer frame and most likely you'll see the controller work like it should.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Activator IV Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 4 Axles - Time Delayed
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Time Delayed Controller
- Electric
- Plug-In
- Under-Dash Box
- Under-Dash
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Single Trailer Only
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Recommended Trailer Hitch and Wiring Harness for a 2025 Kia Sorrento Hybrid
- Q&A: Will Kodiak Trailer Hub for 3,500-lb Axles Fit Dexter 80043A Spindle On Boat Trailer
- Q&A: Help Picking Out Replacement Axle for 2004 Ranger Trail Trailer
- Q&A: Replacement Hub and Drum Assemblies for AL/KO 8460 Hubs and Drums
- Q&A: Replacing Wheels on a Trailer with 5 Spoke Utility Hubs and 8-14.5 Size Tires
- Q&A: Can 2020 Kia Soul-GT Turbo DCT be Flat Towed behind Motorhome
- Q&A: Difference Between Tekonsha 119251 and 119250 ZCI Wiring Harness for Mini Cooper
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Troubleshooting Brake Controller Installations
- Article: How to Measure for Travel Trailer and Fifth Wheel Steps
- Article: Double-Eye Trailer Suspension System Review
- Article: Towing a Trailer? Let's Talk About Brake Controllers
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams