Troubleshooting Hopkins Brake Controller-Will Only Apply Brakes With Manual Brake Switch
Question:
The trailer breaks work when I push the red button on the controller, trailer breaks will not stop the same when break peddle is applied. What am I missing ? Does the break a way battery have to be working ?
asked by: Dave
Helpful Expert Reply:
When the trailer brakes will operate with the manual brake switch on the controller but not with the brake pedal, it means that the brake controller isn't being 'notified' when the brake pedal is pressed.
The red wire exiting the rear of the controller is connected to the 3rd brake light circuit of the truck. If the fuse for this crircuit is blown the controller won't know that the vehicle brakes are being applied. The fuse you're looking for is located in the fuse box under the hood, next to the battery. You're looking for a 20A fuse that's in location 26, and is known as the CHMSL (center high mounted stop lamp). Replace the fuse as needed.
You'll also want to make sure your controller is installed according to the installation instructions. If the controller isn't installed in the correct angle, or isn't installed pointing in the direction of travel it can malfunction in the way you described.
The break away battery on the trailer shouldn't have anything to do with the problem you're experiencing. I'll link you to our troubleshooting guide for Brake Controllers.
