Proportional Brake Controller Only Works With Manual Override

Question:

The Digitrac brake controller does not engage when the brakes are applied. I have to activate manual Is there any possible causes that you are aware of that I can check to solve the problem

asked by: Scott L

Expert Reply:

Although the Digitrac brake controller isn't one we carry, I'll do my best to help you troubleshoot it with the information I've gathered.

Digitrac brake controllers like the one you have are proportional brake controllers, this means that it senses the vehicle's deceleration and applies the brakes in proportion to your vehicle's braking action. Therefore, it is completely normal for a proportional brake controller to activate the trailer brakes only when it senses movement. The manual override is completely separate (for obvious reasons) so it will engage the brakes even when parked.

If you are having this issue while moving then the first thing to check an likely your issue is your red wire (stop light circuit). The red wire on the controller needs to be connected to the cold side of the brake switch which is located above the brake pedal. What we mean by "cold" is that it should only show power when the brake pedal is applied. If you have power on the red wire before the brake pedal is pressed, it means the red wire has been connected to the wrong circuit and you need to locate and reconnect to the cold side of the brake switch. To test the wire I recommend using a circuit tester like # PTW2993.

Proportional controllers need to be mounted at a specific angle to be able to get a good reading. I wasn't able to find the specs on your Digitrac but just make sure it's mounted as vertically leveled as possible.

If all that checks out and you have made sure your ground wire is tightly secured on a flat, unpainted metal surface, then it's likely there is an internal issue with your brake controller and it needs to be replaced.

For a comparable controller that is also budget friendly, I recommend the Tekonsha Primus IQ # TK90160 because it's got an easy to read display whith continuous diagnostic checks that alert you of any potential problems and it's self leveling, meaning it will work properly even if not mounted completely flat.