What Does Overload Error for Prodigy P3 Brake Controller Mean
Question:
Hi, I purchased the P3 trailer Brake, and also the trailer disconnect kit for my horse trailer. Out of the blue the P3 says overload and no trailer brakes. I am trying to trouble shoot, now when I hook up the blue wire from the trailer plug to the blue wire to the disconnect I get an off and on tick sound, but no brakes yet. Also the Assessor prong on the trucks plug has no amps. Can you help? Thanks
asked by: Nick
Helpful Expert Reply:
The OVERLOAD error message you are experiencing is caused by a high current draw from the brake circuit. In other words, there is a short somewhere in your brake output circuit. Typically the problem can be found at the trailer connector, on the brake output circuit on the trailer, or at the wiring connection at the brake magnets.
Start by examining the trailer connector on the trailer and the vehicle. Make sure that there is no damage or corrosion and that the wiring connections are secure. If you can see any green corrosion on the sockets or pins on the connector, there is a possibility that the corrosion has spread to the interior connections and is causing a short. Next, trace the brake output circuit from the trailer connector on the trailer (usually the blue wire) back to the brake magnets. Look for any points where the wire is pinched, or where the wire insulation has been rubbed off or is cracked. Any missing wire insulation can cause the wire to short to the trailer frame. Finally, check the point where the brake output wire connects to the brake magnets. Make sure these connections are secure, and that one lead from each brake magnet is attached to the output circuit, and the other is grounded to the trailer frame.
I have attached a link to an FAQ page that has many troubleshooting techniques for you to check out too.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Article: Towing a Trailer? Let's Talk About Brake Controllers
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: How to Install a Brake Controller on Chevrolet / GMC 1999-2006 Pickups
- Article: Most Popular Wheel Bearings
- Q&A: Brake Controller Recommendation for a Truck with Air Brakes and a Trailer with Electric Brakes
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Q&A: Parts Needed To Install A Brake Controller On A 2023 Freightliner Cascadia
- Q&A: Parts Needed to Install 7-Way/4-Way on 2024 Kia Telluride with LED Taillights
- Q&A: How do I Tell if the Brake Controller is Bad
- Q&A: Lift Kit Options For A 2015 Winnebago Micro Minnie 1706FB
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels