Hopkins Agility Electric Trailer Brake Controller and 7-Way Show 12 Volt Power All the Time
Question:
I have a Hopkins Agility and Reese multiadapter installed on my 2001 4runner no tow package. They both are constantly on, indicating that there is 12v power adapter and there is a trailer connected controller. They are on when the truck is off and no trailer attached. All the lights work properly. Both components are wired to the positive post of the battery, but I am worried about draining the battery when the truck sits for extended periods. Shouldnt these things only turn on when the truck is running?
asked by: Mike
Expert Reply:
Some vehicles will only supply power to certain accessories when the key is on. Others will allow power to them all of the time. For the 7-Way trailer connector, having 12 volt power all of the time is not an issue unless there is something connected to it that is drawing power. Otherwise, think of it as a really long battery terminal.
The brake controller, when powered on but not performing any function, draws very little power. But it should not display anything when there is no trailer connected. If it is displaying anything and no trailer is connected, that would indicate there is a short somewhere. Make sure that the wires are connected as follows:
Black = 12 volt power, connects to positive battery terminal via a 20 or 30 amp circuit breaker
Blue = output to the 7-Way, provides power to trailer brakes
White = ground, attach to negative battery terminal
Red = input from brake switch, attaches to cold side of brake switch to the wire that is a brake light only
The most likely culprit is a dirty or corroded trailer connector on the vehicle or trailer, so I would check those first. Next, you can make sure that the ground connections for the controller and connectors are intact. The one for the brake controller should be connected to the negative battery terminal.
Make sure that the 12 volt power for the trailer connector is attached to the positive battery terminal via a 40 amp circuit breaker and the brake controller a 20 or 30 amp circuit breaker. I have included a couple of links that show the proper installation method for you.
