Circuit Tester for Finding the Brake Signal Wire for a Brake Controller on a 2007 Dodge Dakota

Updated 10/11/2011 | Published 10/10/2011

Question:

I am trying to install a break controller in my 2007 dodge dakota. I do not know which wire carries the break signal. in the video Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan the tech uses a tester which seem to loop around the wire rather then poke a hole in the insulation, do you know what that tester is and were can I get one? thanks.

asked by: Frank L

Expert Reply:

The circuit tester used in the video you referenced, see link, is the Draw-Tite circuit tester, # PTW2993. This tester has a spring-loaded clamp that secures the wire and allows you to easily pierce the wire coating. It does poke a small hole in the wire insulation, but because of the design, the damage to the wire is very minimal. We have a video review of this tester which shows the parts included with the tester and how it is used.

When you find a wire coming from the brake pedal switch that goes hot when the brake pedal is pushed and cold when it is released then that will be the brake circuit to use for installation of the brake controller.

expert reply by: Robert G