Troubleshooting "Not Operational-Low Battery" on Monitor of Roadmaster Even Brake 9400

Question:

When we tested the 12v outlet in our 2006 Dodge Durango, we plugged the unit into the outlet we will be using and the red light came on, show us that there was enough power to that outlet. However, when we set up the unit and then plug it in to the same outlet, the motorhome monitor reads “Not Operational - Low Battery”. There is a 20 amp fuse associated with this outlet. We are quite confused. Pressurized air doesn’t build up, nor can we even get to a point to run a Test. We tried to re-synch the monitor and the ICX modem. The monitor was in “Learning Mode”, but the unit couldn’t get to the Test Mode. Thank you!

asked by: Deb L

Expert Reply:

The Roadmaster Even Brake Portable Supplemental Braking System - Proportional # RM-9400 is reading that outlet is not a constant 12 volts. The light on the outlet is not the only indicator as the system is far more sophisticated and the LED light requires very little power to light. Some vehicles only take a short time from a fully charged battery to drop from 12 volts when the engine isn't running.

The instructions state "Note: unless the red (power) wire is connected to a fuse that provides 12 VDC+ at all times, the motorhome monitor will display error messages relating to low battery power, such as “Low Battery,” when towing. " It will not continue in testing with this error as it won't be safe to operate, so this needs solved prior to the unit being able to complete the test and pressurize.

My recommendation is to use the Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-156-25 to charge your battery while towing to maintain the power for your Even Brake system. You can also choose to use the 12 Volt Outlet Kit, 20 amps # RM-9332 directly connected to your vehicle battery to ensure power.

expert reply by: Jason S