Could Prodigy RF Brake Controller Install on Trailer As Backup if In-Cab Controller Broke

Published 01/03/2025

Question:

reference the Tekonsha Prodigy RF Wireless Brake Controller - Trailer Mount w Remote - 1 to 3 Axles - Proportional Id like to just use it for an emergency backup to the trailers brakes only. Id leave the trailer plugged into my truck normally for lights, but use the Tekonosha in the event my trucks trailer brake system failed but not the lights. Id power the Tekonosha seperately. If my trucks trailer brakes system failed, Id use the button on the side of the remote controller to apply trailer brakes as needed.

asked by: Dean W

Expert Reply:

Hey Dean, so there's probably a way to do that in that very specific way you described but it might just be easier to plug the controller in and use it like it was designed if ever needed. When you plug this into a truck that has a brake controller installed on it already this effectively just bypasses it so there's no need to worry about the way your truck is setup currently.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Dean S.

1/3/2025

So let's say my trucks 'trailer brakes' circuit isn't sending anything out (has failed) through the 7 pin socket on the truck's 'blue wire' that the Tekonosha "male" plug is plugged into at the rear of my truck, but the other 6 wires are ok, L & R T/S, 12v (+), 12v (-), marker lights, B/UP. If I applied the remote wireless controller by squeezing the button on the side it would apply the 'trailer brakes' depending how hard I squeeze effectively 'bypassing' the brake pedal my foot is applying pressure on? And if the foot pedal brake signal isn't failed, then the normal foot pedal "message" travels through the Tekonsha and acts 'normal'? If so, this sounds like a great solution to always have trailer brakes in my trucks trailer brakes "message" to the trailer brakes ever fails?

Jameson C.

1/3/2025

@DeanS Basically the RF controller uses your trailer stoplight circuits to tell it that you are applying the vehicle brakes and to start sensing deceleration and apply a proportional amount of trailer braking power. As long as all of the lights on the trailer are still active the RF will work great.