Troubleshooting Trailer Brakes Not Releasing with Draw-Tite Activator Brake Controller  

Question:

Expert Reply:

There are a few potential reasons why the trailer brakes don't seem to be releasing correctly after applying them in your Chevy Avalanche.

I first recommend making sure you connected the red wire from your Draw-Tite Activator Brake Controller to the cold side of the stop light switch in the truck. This is the wire beneath the brake pedal that only receives power with the brake pedal depressed, and no power with any other function. You can use a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to confirm you are tapping into the correct wire.

If this connection is good, I recommend moving to the brake controller itself to make sure it is in good working condition. To test the controller, you can sever the blue wire a few inches back from the unit and use a circuit tester to test the brake controller end. Apply the manual override and test for voltage - it should show a signal when the override is applied and no signal when you release it. It should do the same thing when using the brake pedal. If it is showing power when it should not be, this indicates an internal issue on the controller and it should be replaced. If you do find that you need a new controller, I highly recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885.

If the controller looks fine, I recommend next checking both the vehicle side and trailer side connectors. Check to see if there is any built-up corrosion or debris behind the pins and clean them out if needed.

If you are still unable to find and resolve this issue, please let me know and I will be happy to help you further.

expert reply by: Chris R

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