Why Does My Tekonsha Primus Brake Controller Need Max Gain to Stop Brand New Jaco Ultralite Trailer

Updated 05/08/2020 | Published 03/30/2013

Question:

Has to adjust to max setting is this normal? Bought a new 2013 Jaco ultralite x17z weighs max at 3500lbs Picked it up at the dealer, adjusted as normal but had to move wheel to max. It braked ok but I feel uncomfortable having adjusted to max. Thoughts Thanks in advanced for your help

asked by: David A

Expert Reply:

As long as the Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller # TK90160 that you referenced is set up correctly the braking setting will largely be based on the brakes of the trailer. When I say installed correctly I mean that you have the controller mounted within the specified range in the instructions, not turned or tilted to the side.

Since the trailer is brand new the brakes on your 2013 Jaco Ultralite X17Z may not be adjusted correctly. Check out the video I attached that shows how to initially adjust brake assemblies. Since this is a new trailer this what I think is the most likely cause. Most brake assemblies will self-adjust eventually to the correct setting also.

Fast forward to the 4:23 mark to see the adjustment process.

You may find that you need to use one of the boost settings on your controller to get more aggressive braking.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Christopher H.

5/3/2020

I purchased the Tekonsha Primus IQ that you recommend for my 2012 Dodge Journey. I cant connect the controller to the brake pedal signal switch. There is less than 12v at that switch. Perhaps because of the LED tail lights the Dodge Journeys have. So where am I suppose to get a brake light signal for this Primus IQ controller?

Chris R.

5/6/2020

Right around the time your 2012 Dodge Journey was manufactured, Chrysler started going to pedal position sensors instead of brake light switches, which is why you aren't getting enough voltage behind the brake pedal. The best option for connecting the red wire on your Primus IQ (or any other traditional brake controller) will be to tap into the brake signal using another source such as the 3rd brake light.

Christopher H.

5/6/2020

@ChrisR Thank You for your replay. This makes sense. My question is now where do I find another brake signal source such as the 3rd brake light wire to tap into on the Dodge Journey?

Chris R.

5/8/2020

Based on my research you should be able to tap into the 3rd brake light circuit by using a white/green wire located behind the glove box. If you actually search this issue online, there are some pretty good forums that discuss the process of locating and connecting to this wire.