Can 12v Circuit To 7-way Connector and Power Wire To Trailer Brake Controller Use The Same Breaker?
Question:
Is it possible for the this controller to work with the wire setup Ive attached? I had a mechanic install this brake controller on my 2018 Subaru Outback. I had already installed the 4pin. After a couple hours of driving the controller shutoff and then every 30-45 second would flash on then back off very quickly with an audible click. When I got home 5 hour drive I unplugged the controller and my vehicle was still emitting a clicking sound. I disconnected the wire that they had connected to my battery and the clicking ceased. When I pressed the wire I removed to the battery, the battery would spark and the clicking sound would be made. After doing this, I would have to wait about a minute to see the same results when pressing the wire to the battery. Ive attached a diagram of the wiring they installed. After talking to them, they have agreed to take a look at it in a couple weeks. They believe there is a short. I mentioned the wiring did not match what I saw online but they believe their install is correct. Is it possible for the this controller to work with the following wire setup?
asked by: Matthew
Expert Reply:
Based on the pictures you provided they used the same circuit breaker for powering the 12v pin on the 7-way connector and the trailer brake controller that you have in your 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon which is not correct.
This is not how the kit should be installed as the 12v power pin requires a 40 amp circuit breaker, while most trailer brake controllers use a 20 amp circuit breaker if the trailer you are towing has 1 or 2 braking axles (2-4 braking assemblies) or a 30 amp circuit breaker if the trailer has 3-4 braking axles (6-8 braking assemblies).
I would have the mechanic add the correct, dedicated circuit breaker that is used only power to the trailer brake controller and your issue should go away. You can find the circuit breaker requirement in the instruction manual for your controller.
If they installed the # ETBC7 kit you were looking at it includes a 40 amp, 30 amp, and 20 amp circuit breaker so there is no reason for them to have used a single breaker as could be overloading it and will likely trip the breaker pretty often.
I included a video of the # ETBC7 being installed for you to take a look at.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
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