Weak and Pulsing Trailer Brakes when Using Tekonsha P2 Brake Controller on a 2012 Skyline Trailer

Question:

What should the amp draw be for a new 2012 Skyline Bobcat single axle trailer? The P2 starts to activate and gets to about 2.0 volts then shows S.H and pulses the brakes until almost stopped. Just before coming to a stop it gives an o.c and feels like it quits braking. During very slow speed operation I was beside both sides of the trailer and can hear both magnets actuating. What should I do next?

asked by: John E

Expert Reply:

On the P2 brake controller # 90885, the SH indicates that there is a short on the blue wire that is output to the trailer brakes. The oc might actually be nc or 00. NC indicates the trailer is not connected and 00 means the power setting on the controller is set to zero.

For the SH the most likely cause is a dirty trailer connector on either the truck or trailer side or both. Check the connectors for dirt and corrosion. Corrosion can also build up where the wires attach to the connector. It is unlikely that there is a wiring issue on a new trailer but you might want to inspect the wiring to the brakes just to be sure.

A dirty connector can also cause the nc error or it code be a bad ground somewhere. Again check the connectors and grounds for the connectors and magnets. If it is the 00 error then try adjusting the power output.

The P2 can be mounted a full 360 degrees as long as it is in the direction of travel. It cannot be tilted or turned to the side. This would cause the internal sensor and automatic leveler to not function properly which would cause braking that is either too aggressive or too weak.

expert reply by: Michael H