Tekonsha P3 Installed on 2004 Chevy Silverado is Not Getting Power

Question:

We purchased the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller and the Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - GM part number: 3015-P. I followed all your instructions trying to install both items to my 2004 Chevy Silverado 1500 which is equipped with a trailer towing package. I installeded a 7-pin connector and all the trailer lights were working. Then i went under the hood to inspect the fuse panel and found the 30 Amp fuse on the right top corner and i checked if it has power which it does. So the fuse is not blown, but in working condition. On the left top corner i installed a 40 amp fuse which is also in working condition. Still, after taking all these steps, i have no power on either the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Plug-in wiring adapter nor the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller.

asked by: Stylianos

Helpful Expert Reply:

First, check the power distribution box and ensure that the wire feeding the brake controller is connected to the power post as shown in the photo I have provided. If not, locate the RED wire with ring terminal, which should be located between the fuse box and the firewall.

If this wire is indeed in place, lets confirm that there is not power reaching the controller. Unplug the # 3015-P wiring harness from the rear of the controller and use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 on the black wire on the harness. If you get power, the controller you have is faulty and should be replaced. If you do not get power, unplug the 3015-P from the socket under the dash, and use the tester on the pin that corresponds with the black wire of the harness. If you still get no power and have confirmed that the 30-amp fuse shown in the photo I edited for you is installed and not blown, the quickest and easiest way to fix this would be to run your own power wire to the battery.

Cut the black wire on your 3015-P harness and use a butt connector to splice in a length of 12-gauge wire like 12-1-1. Run this wire through the firewall and to the positive battery terminal. You will need to install a 30-amp circuit breaker like # 38630 in line with this wire. I have linked you to the appropriate connectors and terminals. Running your own connection to the battery will bypass the factory connection through the fuse box. As long as the circuit breaker is used, this connection will be safe and reliable.

expert reply by: Mike L