Test brake controller or buy new one
#1
Test brake controller or buy new one
I am getting ready to haul my first trailer with my 1985 F-250HD. There is a brake controller and 7 pin connector but the controller is disconnected and have not examined the wiring from the connector.
I want to figure out of the controller in the cab is any good or need a new one. Once I get a wiring digram for my model (can't recall what it is at the moment), do I just need read some voltages?
I want to figure out of the controller in the cab is any good or need a new one. Once I get a wiring digram for my model (can't recall what it is at the moment), do I just need read some voltages?
#2
Would help if we knew what make & model brake controller you have is. But usually, YES, you'd just have to make sure you have power going to the 7 pin connector at the rear of the truck. I would disassemble the 7 way plug at the rear of the truck to insure of the condition of plug and pins (no rust or crud inside) BEFORE you push power back there and to check wire coloring. See the READ FIRST at the top of the forum page for wiring coding and pinout connections. also here: https://www.etrailer.com/faq-wiring.aspx photo's for all know plugs here too.
Yellow = Left turn
Green = Right turn
Brown = Tail/Marker
Blue = Trailer Brakes
Black = +12 volt source (ie breakaway battery charge)
Orange = Backup/Auxillary
Yellow = Left turn
Green = Right turn
Brown = Tail/Marker
Blue = Trailer Brakes
Black = +12 volt source (ie breakaway battery charge)
Orange = Backup/Auxillary
#3
#4
Newer controllers are electronic and pair stopping power to the trailer to the rate at which the truck is deaccelerating, a real advance in terms of smooth stopping action. Older controllers essentially boost stopping power in relation to how long you keep your foot on the brake pedal.
For a starting point in your truck can you tell where the controller used to be connected. it might be worth simply hooking it up and see if it works.
This is not the original Kelsey that is teed at the master cylinder is it?
For a starting point in your truck can you tell where the controller used to be connected. it might be worth simply hooking it up and see if it works.
This is not the original Kelsey that is teed at the master cylinder is it?
#5
I found a fancy controller with a rotary push button **** that can be mounted clean in the dash like I want. https://redarcelectronics.com/produc...ake_controller
Spendy but I like the functionality. Not a fan of things hanging off the bottom of a dash. I could even grab a **** from the JY and make that unit look factory almost.
#6
You need some kind of load on it to test for voltage output. You can't just push the button and expect power on the blue wire.
Get 12v to the power lead and the brake wire and hook a 12v light to the blue wire. It should light up when you push the manual button on the controller. If it does, then it should be good to go. Finish wiring it up.
Yours looks pretty new, so I don't see a reason for it not to work.
Mid 90's trucks had a plug under the dash for brake controller wiring if it was ordered with tow package(I had a few).
Get 12v to the power lead and the brake wire and hook a 12v light to the blue wire. It should light up when you push the manual button on the controller. If it does, then it should be good to go. Finish wiring it up.
Yours looks pretty new, so I don't see a reason for it not to work.
Mid 90's trucks had a plug under the dash for brake controller wiring if it was ordered with tow package(I had a few).
#7
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
zman4x4
2015 - 2020 F150
2
06-24-2017 10:28 AM
walnutcreek
Other; Brakes, Electrical, Hitches, Weight Distribution & CDL Discussion
3
11-14-2004 09:32 PM
plod
Other; Brakes, Electrical, Hitches, Weight Distribution & CDL Discussion
3
10-04-2004 07:31 PM