How to Bench Test a Brake Controller

Question:

Team, I have a second-hand Toyota landcruiser with a P1 controller that seems to be wired correctly - ncinch showing when no trailer connected. I have ordered a new trailer with electric brakes and want to check the controller is working properly before picking the trailer up - are there any tests that can be performed by an electrical engineer with a multi-meter without a trailer connected? Cheers!!

asked by: Steve B

Expert Reply:

You can indeed bench test a controller, and the good news is that it's pretty simple. I've linked a video that will walk you through the process. Using a circuit tester like # PTW2993 will usually work better than a multimeter because the tester will apply a load to the circuit, while a multimeter might not.

If you find you need to replace the brake controller, the most similar controller we offer is the Tekonsha Primus, part # TK90160.

expert reply by: Mike L