SH Error Code on a Tekonsha P2 Trailer Brake Controller with 2003 Ford F-250 In Reverse

Updated 02/13/2013 | Published 02/10/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - Ford, Lincoln, Mercury

(1800)

$22.04

Cordless Circuit Tester

(15)

$20.00

Question:

Just installed the Tekonsha P2 in my 2003 Ford F250 super duty pickup using the 3035-P Harness. Everything seems to work properly until I shift into reverse. Most times not all the controller begins flashing the SH code and I hear an audible ticking from inside the instrument panel keeping time with the flashing code. Cant determine where the sound is coming from but seems to be from a component on the steering column. After a couple of shifts the code goes away and the normal function is observed. Condition is observed with or without the trailer connected. Any ideas? Will the controller be damaged? Would the P3 be a better choice?

asked by: Richard M

Expert Reply:

It is possible that there is a short inside the 7-Way or on the pins. Check for dirt or corrosion on the pins and around back of the 7-Way where the wires attach. The ticking sound may be a circuit breaker or something else related to the tow package wiring that is tripping with the short. I am not sure why it goes away after a few shifts though unless it somehow can work itself out.

You will also need to make sure that the connector you are using # 3035-P is pinned out correctly. If you are looking at the part that plugs into the truck the pins should be in an L shape. I included a picture of what the functions should be (if looking at the face of 3035-P). If yours is different then it will need to be changed to this configuration.

You can test the controller to determine if it is bad after you have cleaned out the trailer connectors and made sure the 3035-P is pinned out correctly. What you will do is sever the blue wire a few inches from the back of the controller and then use a circuit tester like # PTW2979 if needed to test the end coming out of the controller. It should only show power when you apply the manual override lever. If it shows power at any other time during this test then the controller is bad and it will need to be replaced.

The P2 is an excellent controller so it is not a problem of if the controller is the wrong one for your truck. It is most likely excessive power draw from a short (SH) which is normally the result of dirt or corrosion in a trailer connector.

expert reply by: Michael H