Troubleshooting a Brake Controller not Working When Used with a 7-way to 6-Way Adapter

Question:

Hi I have put in a digital pilot brake box and my truck, 06 2500 ram mega cab, came factory with 7-way and I have an adapter to get it to my trailer which is 6 way but when plugged up marker lights come on but brakes dont work turn signals dont nor brake lights and on box it doesnt show its even connected. Thanks any help or knowledge would be appreciated thanks

asked by: Justin R

Expert Reply:

A 6-Way trailer connector can be pinned in 2 different ways. The center pin can either be 12 volt power or trailer brakes. You will need to determine which way your trailer is wired up and then make sure the adapter you have is wired up the same way. This would explain the issues you are having with the brake controller not working.

Next thing you will want to do is test the circuits of the 7-way with a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 to make sure all of the circuits are active. If so, the problem isn't the tow vehicle and it's on the wiring of the trailer or adapter. Typical issues that cause this are corrosion on the trailer connectors, bad grounds on the trailer light assemblies, or finally shorts in the wiring.

I attached an FAQ on troubleshooting brake controller and 4-way installs for you to check out plus an FAQ on trailer wiring that all should be helpful for you.

expert reply by: Jameson C