What Type of Load Needs to be Detected for Brake Controller to Determine a Trailer is Connected

Question:

In a previous QA the expert said putting a load on the brake controller output at the 7-pin connector the controller will think a trailer is connected. How much load Ohms and is it referenced to ground? Thanks.

asked by: John G

Expert Reply:

An exact load figure isn't available but normally just the presence of a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 is enough for a brake controller output circuit to determine that a trailer is connected. Normally it's the load detected on the circuit that's present due to trailer brake magnets that is what the controller needs to see. Which the normal ohm range for brake magnets is typically between 3 and 4 ohms.

expert reply by: Jameson C