How Much Power/Amps Does the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Draw

Updated 12/02/2019 | Published 11/30/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6643)

$155.20

Autowbrake Electric Brake Controller - Trailer Mount w/ Remote Fob - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(105)

$479.99

Pigtail Wiring Harness for Tekonsha and Draw-Tite Brake Controllers - 34" Long

(183)

$13.75

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Off-Road Mode - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(1676)

$290.00

Replacement Mounting Bracket Kit for Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller

(279)

$13.85

Question:

Can you tell me what a typical initial surge current Amps or power Watts is for a Tekonsha P3 brake controller when brakes are initially applied? Im mostly running this with a single axle trailer, but will occasionally use it with double axle trailers. My tow vehicle has a 24 volt system, so I will be powering the controller with a 24V to 12V DC to DC converter. I need to make sure I size the converters peak capacity to handle the initial surge when brakes are applied. Im specifically interested in the Tekonsha P3. Im familiar with that controller, since I have it installed in my other vehicles. However, since this vehicle is an antique military truck, Id consider other suggestions you may have for controller - especially those which may allow the main controller unit to be mounted remotely, with just a small control knob on the dash.

asked by: John M

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller part # 90195 will draw 1 amp of current per volt sent to the trailer brakes on a tandem axle trailer and 1/2 amp of current per volt sent to the trailer brakes on a single axle trailer. Therefore, the max amp draw would be around 12 for a tandem axle trailer or 6 for a single axle trailer. In order to transfer the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 from one vehicle to another you would need both the Pigtail Wiring Harness part # 7894 and the Replacement Mounting Bracket Kit part # TK5906.

For a wireless brake controller that would not require any splicing into the vehicle you could go with the Autowbrake Electric Brake Controller part # 3430001 which installs completely on the trailer and uses a remote for the manual override feature. That said, you would still need to make sure the controller is feed 12 volts. The only brake controller we offer for a 24 volt system is the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Trailer Brake Controller part # RED44FR which is controlled via a control knob on the dash like you wanted.

expert reply by: Conner L