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Electronic Brake Control Customer Service and Technical Staff Guide
Installation and Setup
Mounting the P3 Brake Control:
- The front of the P3 must be horizontal and parallel to the direction of travel.
- Mount in a location where the display is viewable and buttons are easily accessible.
Wiring Options:
- Pigtail Wiring Harness: Use the included harness and follow the Generic Wiring Guide.
- OEM Wiring Harness: For vehicles with a factory tow package, use a Tekonsha OEM harness that connects the P3 to the vehicle's connector.
Mounting Options:
- Traditional Bracket Mount: Use the mounting bracket and #8 X 3/8" machine screws. Ensure the bracket is mounted to a solid surface.
- Under Dash Pocket Mount: Use the T Slot Mount and Small Metal Bracket with #8 X 3/8" Self Tapping Screws.
Operating Instructions
Automatic Leveling of the Sensor:
- The P3 automatically acquires the proper level setting and adjusts as you travel up or down hills.
Setting Brake Type:
- Press Menu/Options Button > Select "Brake Type" > Choose Electric or Hydraulic > Confirm.
Adjusting Power to the Brakes:
- Connect the trailer to the tow vehicle.
- With the engine running, set power to indicate 6.0 using Power Buttons.
- Test by driving at 25 mph and fully apply the Manual Knob. Adjust power accordingly to prevent lock-up or insufficient braking.
Setting Boost:
- Boost levels (B1, B2, B3) increase the sensitivity of the P3’s inertial sensor, enhancing trailer brake participation during braking. Choose based on trailer weight and driving conditions.
Reverse Mode:
- Cancel "BOOST" and "HOLD" by pressing the boost button continuously for five seconds with the brake pedal depressed.
Set Screen Brightness/Color/Contrast:
- Access through Menu/Options Button > Help > Display. Adjust Brightness, Color, and Contrast as desired.
Troubleshooting
Display Readings After Wiring:
- Ensure the display shows power to P3 with or without the trailer connected and the correct brake type setting.
Common Issues:
- Open Ground: Trailer is connected but P3 loses connection to battery ground.
- Overload: P3 detects an excessive current overload condition.
- Output Shorted: Brake output wire shorted to ground or using non-Tekonsha testers.
- Power Loss: Power to P3 interrupted during braking or stop lamp active while connecting.
- No Trailer Connection: Trailer not connected, open circuit on brake line, or connector issues.
Diagnostic Functions:
- Battery Voltage: Displays vehicle battery voltage.
- Stoplight Voltage: Shows voltage from stoplight switch when brake pedal is depressed.
- Output Voltage: Average voltage provided to trailer brakes.
- Output Current: Current provided to trailer brakes.
Important Facts
- RF generating items (cell phones, radios) should not be near the brake control.
- The P3 employs an inertial sensor for proportional braking.
- The P3 will hold the trailer with 25% power at a standstill for longer than 5 seconds.
- The P3 brakes proportionally in reverse, applying appropriate brake voltage based on deceleration.
- Boost is not intended for icy road conditions or as a substitute for trailer brake adjustment or repair.
Appendix A: Trailer Brake Adjustment
- Adjust brakes after the first 200 miles and at 3000-mile intervals. Jack up the trailer, secure on jack stands, and adjust the brake shoes until there's a slight drag on the wheel.
Note: Always warm the trailer's brakes before setting power, as warm brakes are more responsive. The power should never be set high enough to cause trailer brakes to lock up.
For further assistance, refer to the provided contact details for technical support and warranty information.