Tekonsha electric brake controllers are designed to provide safe and effective braking for trailers․ This manual will provide you with the information you need to properly install, operate, and maintain your Tekonsha brake controller․
This manual covers a variety of Tekonsha brake controller models, including the Prodigy P3, Voyager, Primus IQ, Brakeman IV, Prodigy P2, and Pilot․
It also includes information on installation, wiring, troubleshooting, safety, and maintenance․
We recommend reading this manual carefully before installing or operating your Tekonsha brake controller․
Introduction
Welcome to the Tekonsha Electric Brake Controller Manual․ This comprehensive guide is designed to provide you with all the information you need to safely and effectively install, operate, and maintain your Tekonsha brake controller․ Whether you’re a seasoned towing enthusiast or a first-time trailer owner, this manual will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the world of trailer braking with confidence․
Tekonsha is a leading manufacturer of trailer braking systems, renowned for their innovative designs, reliable performance, and commitment to safety․ Their electric brake controllers are engineered to seamlessly integrate with your vehicle’s braking system, providing precise control over your trailer’s brakes for a smooth and secure towing experience․
This manual covers a wide range of Tekonsha brake controller models, each designed to meet specific towing needs and preferences․ From the advanced features of the Prodigy P3 to the simplicity of the Voyager, you’ll find detailed instructions for every model․
Throughout this manual, you’ll encounter important safety information and warnings․ Please pay close attention to these sections, as they are crucial for ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road․ We strongly encourage you to read this manual thoroughly before installing or operating your Tekonsha brake controller․
Tekonsha Brake Controller Models
Tekonsha offers a diverse range of brake controllers, each tailored to specific towing needs and preferences․ Whether you’re hauling a small camper or a heavy-duty trailer, Tekonsha has a model to suit your requirements․ Here’s a brief overview of some of their popular models⁚
- Prodigy P3⁚ This top-of-the-line controller boasts advanced features like a large, easy-to-read display, adjustable boost settings, and manual override․ It’s designed for demanding towing situations and offers a sophisticated user experience․
- Voyager⁚ Known for its simplicity and ease of use, the Voyager is a popular choice for casual towing․ It features a straightforward interface, manual control, and adjustable braking power․ It’s a reliable option for those looking for a basic yet effective brake controller․
- Primus IQ⁚ This controller combines user-friendly features with smart technology․ It has a clear display, adjustable settings, and a built-in sensor for optimal braking performance․ It’s an excellent option for those who value both convenience and control․
- Brakeman IV⁚ This digital brake controller offers advanced features like a large display, adjustable braking power, and a boost function․ It’s ideal for heavier loads and demanding towing applications․
- Prodigy P2⁚ This controller is known for its ease of use and versatility․ It features a simple knob for adjusting braking power, a boost function for heavier loads, and manual override for added control․
- Pilot⁚ This compact and affordable controller is perfect for light-duty towing․ It features a large display, easy-to-use controls, and a manual override function․ It’s a reliable and convenient option for casual trailer users․
This manual will provide you with detailed information on each of these models, including their features, installation, operation, and troubleshooting tips․ You’ll find the specific model you’re using listed within the corresponding sections․
Tekonsha Prodigy P3
The Tekonsha Prodigy P3 is a premium electric brake controller designed for demanding towing applications․ It offers a range of advanced features to ensure safe and efficient braking for your trailer․ Here are some of the key highlights of the Prodigy P3⁚
- Advanced Proportional Control⁚ The Prodigy P3 utilizes a sophisticated proportional braking system that automatically adjusts the trailer brake power based on the tow vehicle’s deceleration rate․ This ensures smooth and controlled braking in various driving conditions․
- Boost Function⁚ The Prodigy P3 features a boost function that allows you to apply extra braking power when towing heavier loads․ This ensures optimal braking performance even when hauling large trailers or heavy cargo․
- Manual Override⁚ For added control, the Prodigy P3 offers a manual override feature․ This allows you to manually apply trailer brakes using a dedicated lever on the controller․ This can be helpful in situations where you need more precise braking control․
- Large Display⁚ The Prodigy P3 features a large, easy-to-read display that shows the current braking power setting, boost level, and other important information․ This allows you to monitor the controller’s operation and make adjustments as needed․
- User-Friendly Interface⁚ The Prodigy P3 has a user-friendly interface with simple buttons and a clear layout․ This makes it easy to set up and operate the controller, even for those who are unfamiliar with brake controllers․
The Tekonsha Prodigy P3 is a versatile and feature-rich brake controller that delivers exceptional braking performance for a wide range of towing applications․ Its advanced features and user-friendly design make it an excellent choice for those who demand the best in trailer braking technology․
Tekonsha Voyager
The Tekonsha Voyager is a simple yet effective electric brake controller designed for everyday towing needs․ It provides reliable braking control for trailers, making it a popular choice for those looking for a straightforward and user-friendly solution․ Here are some of the key features of the Tekonsha Voyager⁚
- Proportional Braking⁚ The Voyager utilizes a proportional braking system that automatically adjusts the trailer brake power based on the tow vehicle’s deceleration rate․ This ensures smooth and controlled braking in various driving conditions․
- Adjustable Braking Power⁚ The Voyager allows you to adjust the braking power output to match the weight and braking requirements of your trailer․ This ensures optimal braking performance for different towing situations․
- Manual Override⁚ The Voyager includes a manual override feature that lets you manually apply the trailer brakes using a dedicated lever on the controller․ This provides additional control when needed․
- Easy Installation⁚ The Voyager is designed for easy installation with a straightforward wiring process․ It comes with a comprehensive installation manual and clear instructions to guide you through the setup․
- Compact Design⁚ The Voyager has a compact and streamlined design that fits neatly in most vehicle cabins․ Its small footprint makes it easy to mount and integrate into your vehicle’s interior․
The Tekonsha Voyager is a reliable and affordable electric brake controller that offers basic yet essential braking features for everyday towing․ Its simplicity, ease of use, and compact design make it a practical choice for those who prioritize functionality and value․
Tekonsha Primus IQ
The Tekonsha Primus IQ is a sophisticated electric brake controller that combines advanced features with intuitive operation․ It offers a range of capabilities designed to enhance towing safety and control, making it a popular choice for experienced and discerning tow vehicle owners․
- Smart Braking Technology⁚ The Primus IQ utilizes a smart braking system that automatically adjusts the trailer brake power based on the tow vehicle’s speed, deceleration rate, and load weight․ This ensures smooth and responsive braking in various driving scenarios․
- User-Friendly Interface⁚ The Primus IQ features a clear and intuitive display with easy-to-understand controls․ It provides real-time feedback on braking power output, allowing you to monitor and adjust settings as needed․
- Boost Feature⁚ The Primus IQ offers a boost feature that allows you to temporarily increase the braking power output for heavier loads or challenging conditions․ This provides additional control when needed․
- Manual Override⁚ The Primus IQ includes a manual override feature that lets you manually apply the trailer brakes using a dedicated lever․ This provides additional control during emergency braking or when navigating tight spaces․
- Compatibility⁚ The Primus IQ is compatible with a wide range of vehicles and trailers, offering versatility for various towing applications․ It can be used with both electric and electric-over-hydraulic braking systems․
The Tekonsha Primus IQ is a feature-rich electric brake controller that prioritizes both safety and user experience․ Its advanced braking technology, user-friendly interface, and versatile compatibility make it a compelling option for those seeking enhanced control and confidence while towing․
Tekonsha Brakeman IV
The Tekonsha Brakeman IV is a robust and reliable electric brake controller designed for towing enthusiasts who demand dependable performance and ease of use․ It strikes a balance between simplicity and functionality, making it a popular choice for a wide range of towing applications․
- Proportional Braking⁚ The Brakeman IV utilizes proportional braking technology, automatically adjusting the trailer brake power based on the tow vehicle’s deceleration rate․ This ensures smooth and controlled braking, minimizing trailer sway and enhancing overall stability․
- Simple Control⁚ The Brakeman IV features a straightforward design with easy-to-use controls․ A single knob allows you to adjust the braking power output, providing precise control over the trailer’s braking force․
- Manual Override⁚ The Brakeman IV includes a manual override feature that allows you to manually apply the trailer brakes using a dedicated lever․ This provides additional control during emergency situations or when navigating tight spaces․
- Compatibility⁚ The Brakeman IV is compatible with a wide range of vehicles and trailers, making it a versatile option for various towing needs․ It can be used with both electric and electric-over-hydraulic braking systems․
- Durable Construction⁚ The Brakeman IV is built with durable materials and components, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability․ It is designed to withstand the rigors of towing, providing peace of mind on the road․
The Tekonsha Brakeman IV is a reliable and easy-to-use electric brake controller that delivers dependable performance for a variety of towing situations․ Its proportional braking technology, simple controls, and durable construction make it a practical choice for those seeking a straightforward and effective braking solution․
Tekonsha Prodigy P2
The Tekonsha Prodigy P2 is a popular and highly regarded electric brake controller known for its user-friendly interface, advanced features, and reliable performance․ It’s a versatile option suitable for a wide range of towing applications, from light-duty trailers to heavier loads․
- Proportional Braking⁚ The Prodigy P2 utilizes proportional braking technology, ensuring smooth and controlled trailer braking by automatically adjusting the braking force based on the tow vehicle’s deceleration rate․
- Boost Feature⁚ The Prodigy P2 features a boost function, allowing you to apply up to three levels of additional braking power․ This is particularly useful when hauling heavier loads or when encountering challenging driving conditions․
- Manual Override⁚ The Prodigy P2 includes a manual override feature, enabling you to manually apply the trailer brakes using a dedicated lever․ This provides extra control during emergency situations or when navigating tight spaces․
- Electric or Electric Over Hydraulic Braking⁚ The Prodigy P2 supports both electric and electric-over-hydraulic braking systems, offering flexibility and compatibility with a wider range of trailers․
- Easy-to-Use Interface⁚ The Prodigy P2 boasts a user-friendly interface with a large, easy-to-read display and a simple knob for adjusting the braking power output․ This intuitive design simplifies setup and allows for quick adjustments while driving․
- Durable Construction⁚ The Prodigy P2 is built with robust materials and components, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability․ It’s designed to withstand the rigors of towing, providing peace of mind on the road․
The Tekonsha Prodigy P2 is a highly regarded electric brake controller that combines advanced features with user-friendly operation․ Its proportional braking technology, boost function, manual override, and compatibility with various braking systems make it a reliable and versatile choice for towing enthusiasts․
Tekonsha Pilot
The Tekonsha Pilot is a compact and affordable electric brake controller designed for simple towing applications․ It’s a straightforward option ideal for those who tow small trailers occasionally and don’t require the advanced features of more sophisticated controllers․
The Pilot operates on a time-delayed braking system, meaning it applies the trailer brakes after a short delay following the tow vehicle’s brakes․ This delay allows for a smoother braking experience, especially when towing smaller loads․
The Pilot boasts a user-friendly design with a large, easy-to-read dual-digit display that shows the power output and the braking intensity․ The display provides clear feedback on the controller’s operation and allows for easy adjustments․
The Pilot also features manual override capability, allowing you to manually apply the trailer brakes using a dedicated button․ This manual control provides extra control during specific situations or emergencies․
The Tekonsha Pilot is a cost-effective and user-friendly brake controller that offers basic functionality for simple towing needs․ It’s a suitable option for those who tow small trailers occasionally and don’t require advanced braking features․
- Time-Delayed Braking⁚ The Pilot operates on a time-delayed braking system, applying the trailer brakes after a short delay following the tow vehicle’s brakes․
- Simple Design⁚ The Pilot features a straightforward design with a large, easy-to-read display and a single knob for adjusting the braking intensity․
- Manual Override⁚ The Pilot includes a manual override feature, enabling you to manually apply the trailer brakes using a dedicated button․
- Affordable Price⁚ The Pilot is a cost-effective option, making it a suitable choice for those who tow small trailers occasionally and don’t require advanced features․
The Tekonsha Pilot offers a basic and affordable solution for simple towing needs, providing reliable braking control for small trailers․
Installation and Wiring
Installing a Tekonsha electric brake controller requires careful attention to wiring and proper mounting․ The process involves connecting the controller to your vehicle’s electrical system and the trailer’s brake system․
Refer to the specific installation instructions provided with your Tekonsha brake controller model for detailed guidance and diagrams․
The installation generally involves the following steps⁚
- Mount the Brake Controller⁚ Choose a suitable location within the vehicle’s cabin that is accessible to the driver and avoids obstructing any critical functions․
- Connect the Power Wires⁚ Connect the controller’s power wires to the vehicle’s battery․ This usually involves connecting a positive wire to the battery’s positive terminal and a negative wire to the battery’s negative terminal․
- Connect the Brake Signal Wire⁚ Connect the brake signal wire to the vehicle’s brake light switch․ This wire sends a signal to the controller when the brakes are applied, triggering the trailer brakes․
- Connect the Trailer Wiring⁚ Connect the controller’s trailer wiring harness to the trailer’s brake system․ This harness usually includes a 4-pin or 7-pin connector that plugs into the trailer’s wiring․
- Ground the Controller⁚ Ensure the controller is properly grounded to the vehicle’s chassis․ This helps to prevent electrical interference and ensure safe operation․
It is highly recommended to consult with a qualified professional electrician if you are unsure about any aspect of the installation process․ Improper wiring can lead to electrical problems, malfunctions, and safety hazards․
Always double-check the connections and test the system before towing to ensure everything is functioning correctly․
Troubleshooting
If your Tekonsha brake controller malfunctions or experiences issues, it is important to troubleshoot the problem effectively to ensure safe operation․
Here are some common problems and their potential solutions⁚
- No Power to the Controller⁚ Check the power connections to the battery․ Ensure the fuse is intact․ Inspect the wiring for any loose connections or damage․
- No Brake Output⁚ Check the brake light switch connection․ Verify the trailer wiring is connected correctly; Test the brake lights on the trailer to ensure they are working․
- Erratic Braking⁚ Ensure the controller is properly grounded․ Inspect the trailer brakes for any issues․ Check the brake controller settings and adjust them as needed․
- Controller Flashing⁚ Refer to the specific error codes for your Tekonsha model․ A flashing indicator often indicates a fault or problem with the system․
- Overheating⁚ Check the controller’s mounting location․ Ensure adequate airflow around the controller to prevent overheating․
If you are unable to resolve the issue, consult with a qualified professional electrician or contact Tekonsha customer support for assistance․
Remember that electrical systems can be complex․ It is important to exercise caution and safety when troubleshooting any electrical components․ Never attempt repairs if you are not comfortable with electrical work․
