Troubleshooting Brake Controller Output Function

Question:

My tekonsha brake controller is not putting out enough voltage I have checked all connections My vehicle is a 82 Intl. S1700 The battery’s are new input voltage and feed voltage match battery voltage but output barely lights a test light at full brake on the slide switch and the indicator does not light when braking

asked by: Steve H

Expert Reply:

It sounds like your Tekonsha brake controller is either not working properly or you have a short in your brake output wire. I recommend using a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to test the red wire when you hit your brake pedal. This will determine if you are getting the brake switch signal or not for the indicator light on your controller.

Because you are not getting the correct voltage when using the manual override slide, I recommend cutting the blue wire about 6 inches from the back of your controller and testing it for power there. If you don't have proper output voltage there and you have the 12V input then you have an internal issue with your controller. If you do have correct output there, then you will want to run a new brake output wire using # 10-1-1 sold by the foot to your brake output pin on your trailer connector.

I've attached a couple articles to assist.

expert reply by: Jason S