Tekonsha P3.........help!

[runningwriter]

In trying to hook up a Tekonsha P3, I am encountering a blank screen.  Checking the pins at the controller end of the 'plug and play' cable, everything is fine.  This is the third unit that I am on.   

Any Tekonsha P3 owners out there that can chime in?

I am short on time.

thanks,
Dave

[daplumbr]

Here's what the etrailer.com site has for their brake controller trouble-shooting when the unit does not turn on when the ignition is on:

1. Connection to battery is not complete.
2. Vehicle is missing a fuse or relay required to power 12V power circuit.
3. Adapter wiring layout does not match OEM connector on vehicle.

I know this doesn't help you, but when I plugged my P3 into the "plug and play" cable in my TV, it lit right up and worked fine. The P3 plug on my TV supplies power to the unit even with the ignition off. That way I can check setup and hookup without starting the engine. The P3 does an auto-off after a few minutes if the ignition is not turned on. 

For some reason, yours does not seem to be getting power? 

[charliem]

[font size="3"]Make sure you step on the brake pedal and then turn key switch to run, but do not crank. After that, with no trailer connected, mine flashes between red "No trailer connection" and a symbol for a minute or so. Then it switches to a white Tekonsha P3 logo.
[/font]

[charliem]

[font size="3"]From a cold start, and WITHOUT my foot on the brake, the P3 stays blank until the engine starts. Some vehicles inhibit starting if you don't stand on the brake. My Tacoma doesn't.

I assume you got the correct adapter for your vehicle.
[/font]

[runningwriter]

Wow, I found the problem with lots of help from Dan, one of Tekonsha's techs.  These things are very sensitive of the amps that are being fed into them.  

The controller end of the plug and play cable was showing 12v at the black wire as expected.  Somewhere in the circuit was a weak spot.  I cut the black wire and ran a new piece directly back to the #2 lug on the engine compartment fuse box ('04 Silverado).  It lit right up and all the menus were accessible. 

I still have to hook it up to the camper and adjust it, but feel much more confident now.

Thanks to all for the input.


dave

[runningwriter]

Merlin or Charlie,

I am trying to decide if I want to install it with the permanent bracket.  Will this thing light up every time I drive the truck regardless of whether I'm towing or not?

[daplumbr]

Mine lights up, towing or not, with a soft green screen (red for minute or so if not towing). I have it mounted low on the dash (in place of the ash tray) where I can still easily access the manual brake lever. It doesn't bother me there.

[charliem]

[font size="3"]Yes it lights up all the time, but IIRC, there is a dimmer on the menu. Even if not it doesn't bother me even at night. Mine is mounted below and to the right of the steering wheel. Make sure it's out of the way of your knees when entering/exiting but placed so you can see it and reach the control lever while driving.
[/font]

[thudd3r]

there is a dimmer and you can select the colors iirc...it really isnt too obnoxious once you get used to it.