Troubleshooting Pilot Brake Controller On 2001 Ford F-350

Question:

Drawtite brake controller was not applying brakes. It was replaced with a Pilot. Two days later I am seeing that trailer brakes are applied when truck is shifted into Reverse. Also seeing that the controller does not continually show connected. Fluctuates from just a red dot to red dot with c which is supposed to indicate the trailer is connected. The c is always on even when ignition is off. Vehicle is a 2001 Ford 350 with factory towing installed.

asked by: Wayne C

Expert Reply:

The trailer brakes should be applied when the vehicle is shifted into reverse because most vehicles require the brake pedal to be pressed to be able to shift into reverse. The Pilot Brake Controller, part # 80550 is designed for electric brakes only.

You will need a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 and check the wiring for your brake controller. Check the black wire at the back of the controller to make sure you are receiving power.

Then check the red wire to make sure you are only showing current when the brake pedal is pressed. This should be connected to the cold side of the stoplight switch at the top of your brake pedal.

The white ground wire should be attached to a clean, bare metal surface, and the blue wire is ran to the brake output pin on the trailer connector.

Check the connectors and wiring for any obvious signs of corrosion or damage and repair as necessary.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L