Camper Brakes Only Applying with Manual Override on Brake Controller

Question:

I have power to camper brakes, but there not engaging with brake controll. Pulled emergency brake and wheels locked up. Would that be a wiring issue

asked by: Zeb

Expert Reply:

If the trailer brakes are only engaging when using the manual override on the brake controller (and not when stepping on the brake pedal) then the issue most likely is related to wiring like you mentioned, specifically with the stoplight circuit (red) wire from the controller.

If the controller was hardwired to your vehicle, check to make sure that the red wire is connected to the cold side of the stop light switch above the brake pedal. This is the wire 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 verify the correct wire.

It's also possible that you have a blown stop light/CHMSL fuse. You can check your owner's manual for the location of this fuse on your vehicle.

If this does not resolve the issue please let me know and we can continue to troubleshoot.

expert reply by: Chris R