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P3 Trailer Brake Controller Shows Trailer Connected with No Trailer and Voltage When Moved  

Question:

The controller shows its connected to the trailer when its not and when you tilt the controller up and down it activates the voltage up and down you can activate the brakes by moving the controller up and down.

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Expert Reply:

First, if the controller thinks a trailer is connected that is usually because there is something drawing power on the blue wire. To test this, sever the blue wire a few inches from the back of the controller. Then use a circuit tester such as # PTW2991 to test the end of the blue wire coming out of the controller. It should only show power when the manual override is pressed. If it shows power at any other time then there is something wrong inside the controller and it will need to be replaced.

If it checks out ok with this test then reattach the blue wire. The likely cause is a short somewhere. Check the trailer connector on the truck and make sure it is clean and free of corrosion inside and out. Corrosion can cause a short and draw power. If the problem persists then you will need to check the brake output wire from the controller to the 7-Way and look for breaks in the wire.

Tilting the controller is not something you will want to do. It should stay mounted within the limits described in the instructions. Older models could only be mounted a certain angle nose up or down. The controller can not be tilted or turned to one side because that can cause the issue you are having.

The fact that it applies voltage when you move it could mean there is a loose or broken connection between the controller and the truck. You will want to check the connections to the truck tow package wiring and make sure there are no loose copper strands touching metal or other bad connections.

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Michael H

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