Do Proportional Brake Controller Require Tapping into Stoplight Circuit of Brake Pedal Switch
Question:
Hello, I understand time delay-based brake controllers require connection to vehicles brake pedal switch. Do proportional brake controllers that have its own internal sensor to detect braking require a connection to the brake pedal switch ? Im considering the Tekonsha P3 proportional controller, and also looked at the installation video for the ETBC7 kit, however the video seems to be generic not specific to the type of controller. Im basically wondering if I need to connect to the brake switch with the P3 controller or if its optional. Thanks,
asked by: Alex
Expert Reply:
Yes, all brake controllers require you to tap into the brake pedal circuit. The reason is that the controller needs to know when to start looking for braking deceleration and start applying the brakes. If the sensor was always active and looking to send power to the brakes it would randomly start applying the brakes slightly on elevation changes and over bumps. The reason we know this is that we've had customers come back and have what I just described and the problem was that the red wire of the controller had shorted out to a power source.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Video: Review of Tow Ready No Drill Mount Bracket - 18136
- Video: Review of etrailer - Brake Controller - ETBC7
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Shop: Mighty Cord Universal 7-Way Mounting Bracket
- Shop: Extension Cable for Hopkins Smart Hitch Backup Camera - 5 ft
- Shop: No-Drill Mount Bracket, Long
- Shop: Ring Terminal - 12-10 Gauge Wire - 3/16" Ring ID
- Shop: Deka Butt Connector - 12-10 Gauge - Nylon Insulation - Yellow - Qty 1
- Shop: 12 Gauge Black Primary Wire - per foot
- Search Results: backup camera
- Search Results: hm50002
- Search Results: bracket for 7 way
- Search Results: 44~5310a
- Search Results: no drill mount bracket
- Search Results: adapter
- Search Results: 12 gauge wire
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: Finding Stoplight Circuit for Brake Controller Install Ford Dump Truck
- Q&A: 2 Brake Switch Wires have Power with Brake Pedal on a 2016 Ford Escape
- Q&A: Does a Brake Controller Red Wire Have to Attach to the Brake Switch on a Vehicle
- Q&A: How to Find the Brake Switch Stop Light Wire on a 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
- Q&A: Which Brake Switch Wire is the Right One on a 2008 Chevy Express Van to Install a Brake Controller
- Q&A: Obtaining Brake Stop Light Signal to Install Brake Controller in 2003 Subaru Forester
- Q&A: Trouble Finding Brake Switch Wire to Install Brake Controller on a 2006 Toyota Tundra
- Video: Roadmaster Universal Stop Light Switch Kit Instalaltion - 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Brake System
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
on Accessories and Parts
