Troubleshooting a Brake Controller that Reads Voltage Output Without Trailer Connected
Question:
I have a 2003 chevy 2500 HD when brakes applies the numbers on the read out jump around going from 0.0-4.5. Then they constantly move. When nothing is plugged in the box is still showing numbers jumping around, also when you move the break away slider on the box the numbers move around. This just started acting this way. I didnt know if maybe the box is bad or I have a bad wire in the rear plug. The box is a Reese hitch brand activator, which is as old as the truck.
asked by: Chris M
Expert Reply:
Sounds like there is corrosion on the brake output circuit on the 7-way which is causing it to short out and behave strangely. I would recommend you clean the corrosion from the front and back of the 7-way focusing on where the brake output circuit is (5:00 position if you are facing the front) and see if that fixes it.
It is also possible that a wire is loose or cut and that is why it is shorting out.
I attached an FAQ on troubleshooting brake controller installs for you to check out as well.
