First I suggest making sure you are testing the brake circuit pin on your Sierra's 7-way trailer socket. If you refer to the linked photo of a trailer connector you will note the brake controller's output is carried on the pin at the 5:00 position; the ground is at the 7:00 position.
If you happened to test the 12V auxiliary power circuit, carried on the pin at the 2:00 position, it will have power at all times.
I see that you purchased Curt Universal Wiring Adapter # C51515 which installs... view full answer...
I agree that it sounds as if you have a ground issue. I would start by pulling apart the connector again and making sure the ground pin is not bent. Sometimes this can cause the problem.
The next place to look is under the hood at the power distribution block. The power wire is connected to a ground stud at the front of the power distribution block, see link. Make sure the wire is tight and that the fuse for the stud is properly inserted and good.
There are many ground wires and straps... view full answer...
It sounds like there may be two separate issues in play. The no connection message indicates that the P3 is getting power but cannot recognize the trailer brake circuit. Carefully check both the outside and inside of the vehicle and trailer-side connectors for any signs of corrosion. It can happen that corrosion within one of the connectors can bridge two circuits together; this can cause the controller to fail to detect the trailer's brake circuit. It could also lead to a blown fuse. Check... view full answer...
Since you are able to use your manual override and see the voltages, your brake controller is getting and sending signal. Since you get to 3 amps and it grabs, I reached out to Dexter regarding the Dexter DX Series Electric Over Hydraulic Brake Actuator for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi # K71-651 you have for disc brakes. Their tech told me the actuator is designed to kick on at 3 Volts and not before, so that part is normal. However, it should be gradual increase of pressure at that point... view full answer...
The Dexter E/H 1000 you referenced like # K71-650 could certainly be worn out. 10 years is a good lifespan. I would check the fluid levels and ensure there isn't any cut or frayed wires. Also, you will want to ensure the 12 volt battery the actuator is attached to should be fully charged. A depleted trailer battery could cause the unit to stop working. And lastly, there could be an internal short within the actuator. These reasons could be the cause of the intermittent working and not working.
If... view full answer...
The Hopkins Engager Breakaway Kit, # 20099, takes about 20 minutes to recharge. Your 2007 GMC Sierra New Body must be running to charge the battery. The charging light on the breakaway kit will always stay on as long as the trailer is connected to the tow vehicle, but that does not mean the battery is charging.
If you let your vehicle run and the battery will not charge, then you can take the battery to a local automotive store and have them test the battery.
I have linked the installation... view full answer...
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