Troubleshooting Brake Controller Not Connecting to Trailer and Running Lights Always On
Question:
Hi....... Having a problem on a 1997 Ford Explorer AWD V-8 XLT !! 5504 installed by dealer at purchase in 1997. Had to install a second one after manual control slider flew off. Re-wired new one with color-coded wires present from first installation....butt-end connectors all tested with gentle tug to ensure tight crush. Currently, red pilot light comes on when brake pedal is depressed with no trailer connection. If I then connect the vehicle to a brand-new trailer...with a modern 7-pin RV adaptor......the red light comes on and stays on. ...without touching the brake pedal. No brake effect...even with manual control slider no difference with any Output or Sync settings. If I disconnect the trailer, the red light goes out. Trailer brakes do not heat up in this scenario, so they must not be receiving power...even with pilot light on ?? Trailer is receiving power for its running lights through the adaptor. Any clues ?? Thank you !!
asked by: Frank M
Expert Reply:
Well first thing you want to do is remove the adapter (if that's what you mean by modern 7-way adapter) as that will just add another variable to the situation that will complicate troubleshooting.
Typically the problem you first described is a dirty trailer connector. Corrosion or dirt gets on the brake controller pin which then prevents the controller from being able to detect that a trailer is connected.
If that doesn't fix the problem it sounds like you have a the circuits possibly mixed up on either the trailer or truck connector. Use the attached picture to verify that both connectors are wired properly.
I attached a help article on troubleshooting brake controller installs for you to check out as well.
