Adjusting the Power Output on a Tekonsha Voyager Brake Controller

Question:

I have to readjust my trailer brake but when I try and turn the right nob all the way to the right and push the brake the light turns red and I cant get it to go to green unless I turn the same nob to the left.The set up instuctions say never to do this.

asked by: Kim

Expert Reply:

I do not see in the instructions/manual for the Voyager brake controller # 39510, linked for reference, that adjusting the power down, which is what you are describing, is prohibited. Also, the controller should be facing front to back so you would not turn the knobs left or right but forward towards the front or the vehicle or rearward towards the back of the vehicle. The instructions use clockwise (towards the front of the vehicle) and counter-clockwise (towards the rear of the vehicle).

The power adjusting instructions are as follows:

1. Connect trailer to tow vehicle.
2. Set Power Knob to the 12 o’clock position.
3. Drive tow vehicle and trailer on a dry level paved surface at 25 mph and apply manual slide knob.
If trailer brakes lock up:
Turn power down using power knob. (Rotate power knob toward the 8 o’clock position, counter-clockwise.)
If braking was not sufficient:
Turn power up using power knob. (Rotate power knob toward the 5 o’clock position, clockwise.)
4. Repeat Step (3) until power has been set to a point just below wheel lock up or at a sufficient force as to achieve maximum braking power.
5. Using the brake pedal, make a few low speed stops to check the Power and Level adjustments.
The automatic response (brake pedal) is initiated and terminated via the stoplight switch. When the brake pedal is released, trailer braking will cease.

When you adjust the power AFTER the controller has been leveled you will not hold your foot on the brake pedal. The leveling instructions are:

1. Connect trailer to tow vehicle, Bi-Colored Light should glow GREEN.
2. Set power knob to maximum by fully rotating clockwise.
3. Depress tow vehicle’s brake pedal and hold.
4. Rotate the Level Knob counter-clockwise (towards the back of the control) until the Bi-Colored Light starts to change colors from GREEN to RED.
5. Carefully rotate the Level Knob clockwise (towards the front of the control) until a
shade of ORANGE is visible. Bi-Colored Light should show:
DIM ORANGE for a typical setting.
BRIGHT ORANGE for an aggressive setting.
DIM RED for a more aggressive setting.
6. Release brake pedal.