P3 Brake Control Self-Levels Every 10 Seconds But Braking Output Stays Same from Hill to Flat Ground

Question:

Hi guys. How can you tell which version of the P3 you have? The one I have self levels every 10 seconds. So If I come off a hill and tap the brakes on a flat surface, if its within 10 seconds of the last self leveling check, the starting output voltage is still set higher by a few volts instead of from zero. If i leave it 10 seconds it self levels again and the output starts at zero where it should. I confirmed this theory stationary on a flat concrete garage surface. If I tilt the unit then press the brakes, the output voltage is a few volts. If I wait 10 seconds, then tap the brakes the output is zero volts since the car is stationary. Was this changed on the new firmware or is this still currently normal operation? This behavior sounds more like a pendulum than an accelerometer but this is what mine does.

asked by: Gavin

Helpful Expert Reply:

There is only one version of the P3 brake controller # 90195. A few years ago there was a batch that had a display problem but other than that there hasn't been changes made to the function of the controller.

Do you have the boost level set above zero? A higher boost level could affect things a little. Is the controller tilted or turned to the side? That could affect the self-leveling. Otherwise it sounds like it is working normally.

A pendulum system would actually be worse on a hill and wouldn't do much of anything on level ground. There is also the possibility that something is drawing power on the brake circuit. Usually this means there is some corrosion in the 7-Way trailer connector. That is something that is easy to check though. If you see any corrosion on the pins just clear it away.

expert reply by: Michael H