Troubleshooting Draw-Tite Activator 5504 Brake Controller That Shows Brake Power All the Time
Question:
I have a draw Tite activator. When I plug my camper in it always shows that the brakes are applied. What would be the problem
asked by: Mike
Expert Reply:
If your Draw-Tite Activator # 5504 shows trailer brakes are applied even when you're not pressing the pedal or the manual override control then most likely you have a corroded trailer connector on the vehicle or trailer.
What often happens is that corrosion builds up either in the vehicle socket or the trailer plug and this can allow another circuit to become "bridged" to the brake circuit. Check both the vehicle socket and the plug that connects to the back of it, and the plug on the trailer too, for any signs of discoloration or corrosion and apply an aerosol electrical contact cleaner like Caig De-Oxit and/or fine sandpaper (or even a pencil eraser) to clean them.
If this is a brand new controller installation then it is possible you could have the controller's red signal wire connected to the wrong wire at the vehicle brake light switch. The red signal wire should connect to the wire at the brake light switch that carrier power ONLY when the pedal is pressed. Any other connection will cause the controller to send out power all the time, nit just when you press the pedal or manual control as it should.
You can also refer to the linked article for more troubleshooting tips.
