Troubleshooting Operation of Prodigy Brake Controller That Displays Limited Power Output

Question:

Why when power is set to max on my prodigy, I only get max 3.5 voltage output when pressing the brake? But pulling the manual lever will produce 12 volts, either way I can barely feel my brakes engage on dual 10k dexters.

asked by: Robert

Expert Reply:

The Prodigy brake controllers like the P2 # 90885 and P3 # 90195 have both brake power and boost controls to set the amount of braking power sent to the trailer.

Since these are proportional type controllers that use an internal sensor to detect your vehicle's rate of deceleration if you are stationary and press the brake pedal the controller will not generate a signal; it's internal accelerometer will send a signal only when you are moving and apply the brakes. The manual override on the other hand sends out a brake signal based on the selected power and boost levels, whether or not you are moving.

I suggest you test the trailer brakes by applying 12V power directly to the brake circuit on the trailer connector without plugging in to the truck. You can use the truck battery or a spare to send a direct 12V signal to the trailer brakes. You should be able to hear and feel the electric brakes energize when directly powered in this manner. If not your trailer brakes may simply need an adjustment.

If your trailer has an electric-over-hydraulic (EOH) brake actuator then you will want to be certain to select this operation mode from the controller's main menu. The Prodigy controllers will work fine with EOH brakes but you do need to select this mode.

expert reply by: Adam R