Troubleshooting a Draw Tite Activator Brake Controller part # 5504 that Only Displays a Dot

Updated 05/25/2020 | Published 07/04/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Activator IV Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 4 Axles - Time Delayed

(357)

$103.31

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(60)

$12.27

Question:

have hooked up my activator 2, all,s I get is 1 little red dot in the screen, I get no numbers popping up, I got power to it , and everything else is right, is a unit bad?

asked by: Joe S

Expert Reply:

Sounds like the problem lies somewhere in the brake output circuit. When a trailer is connected to the Draw Tite Activator Brake Controller part # 5504 and all that is displayed is a decimal point it means that the controller is not sensing a trailer being connected.

Typically the problem lies in the trailer connectors. Usually there is corrosion on this circuit that prevents the circuit from being completed. Check both the inside and outside of the connector for corrosion or exposed wire and fix as necessary. If that doesn't fix the problem trace the wiring from the connector to the brake assemblies checking for any obvious signs of shorts and fix as necessary.

Repeat this same process on the vehicle wiring as well if that does not fix the problem.

To test the controller to determine if it is bad cut the blue wire about 6 inches back from the brake controller and use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 and test the blue wire on the brake controller for power when you activate the manual override.

If you do not have any power on the blue wire when you activate the manual override, then the brake controller is most likely the issue.

I attached an FAQ on brake controller troubleshooting for you to check out also.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Kelly H.

5/19/2020

I have the same problem as mentioned above. No voltage on blue or red wires. Battery supply (black) tests 8.8 volts? Before i replace the controller, shouldnt the black line test at 12-13v?

Chris R.

5/22/2020

Yes, 8.8V is low for that black power wire. I would make sure you have a solid connection with the battery and that it's ground is secure as well. For some reason the controller just isn't getting enough power. Is it hardwired or were you able to use a plug-in harness?

Kelly H.

5/22/2020

@ChrisR it was installed with a harness. I unplugged it and tested the plug too. That only leaves 2 things, a damaged wire or more likely, a poor ground.

Kelly H.

5/25/2020

@ChrisR just an fyi, the supply wire was damaged under the fuse box and the actuator was also damaged. thanks for your help.