Troubleshooting an SC error code on Journey HD controller

Updated 02/07/2012 | Published 02/03/2012

Products Featured in This Question

Wiring Kit for 2, 4, 6, and 8 Brake Electric Trailer Brake Controllers

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$57.16

Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display

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$21.20

Question:

I started getting an SC error code, so I started looking for a short. As I was troubleshooting, I noticed that sometimes I got the SC code, and sometimes I got numbers, like everything was working fine. Then I found if I used the slide control on the unit, the SC code would go away after I moved the slide about 1/3 of the way to the left and farther. When the slide is in the right hand 1/3 of its movement, the SC code is on. Is there a problem with the unit?

asked by: Steve W

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you have an intermittent short circuit that is being caused a loose wire somewhere that sometimes makes good contact which explains why it works sometimes, and then when the contact is not good you see the SC code.

To eliminate the brake controller from the short circuit equation you will need to sever the blue brake output circuit wire and using a circuit tester like a # PT89ZR test for voltage on the circuit from the brake controller using the manual override lever. If the SC code goes away then you know the problem lies somewhere in the wiring between the brake controller and the brake assemblies of your trailer.

If the SC code stays then you know the problem is in the controller and should be replaced.

The first place I would look for the miswire would be at the trailer connectors. Look for loose wires or corrosion on the front and back of the connectors and fix as necessary. After you check those out I would move down the trailer on the circuit to the brake assemblies looking for pinched wires, corrosion or loose wiring and fix as necessary.

I attached an FAQ on trailer wiring for you to check out also.

expert reply by: Jameson C