Troubleshooting Brake Controller Reading Power Output when no Pressure Is on Pedal

Question:

I have a curt triflex. There is a digital number displayed when no pressure on the brake or trailer connected. It isnt all the time but does show up frequently. Thanks

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

The digital number should only be displayed when braking is applied to your controller with the trailer connected. Since you are getting a reading at some times and not at other times when you are not hitting the brake, it sounds like you may have a ground issue on your controller. I recommend checking that ground to ensure you have an absolutely solid connection. Once you are confident with that connection, if you have further issues I recommend bench testing your controller to see if there is an internal problem. I have attached an article to assist.

If you have this issue when there is no trailer connected, then you are getting a draw on your brake controller output wire (blue). This could be due to corrosion or a short in the wire. I recommend cleaning the connection at your 7-way and adding dielectric grease # 11755 to keep dirt debris and moisture out. Then trace that wire using a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to determine if there is a possible short in the wire and replace wire as needed with # 10-1-1.

expert reply by: Jason S