How to Set the Tekonsha Voyager Electric Brake Controller

by Natalie Lyda

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Providing the right amount of power to a trailer's electric braking system is a key component in ensuring efficient stopping. Too little power can place undue stress on a tow vehicle's braking system, while too much power may cause trailer brakes to lock up while stopping. The Tekonsha Voyager model electric brake controller is a simple in-cab controller that allows drivers to adjust the power to their trailer's brakes from the comfort of the driver's seat.

Step 1

Hook the trailer to the vehicle's hitch. Connect all of the wiring harnesses required for towing.

Step 2

Turn the power knob, located on the right side of the Tekonsha Voyager brake controller, to the 12 o'clock position. Accelerate the vehicle to 25 MPH on a flat, dry surface and apply the trailer brakes by pushing the slider located on the front of the brake controller. Judge the feel of the trailer brakes and adjust the power knob accordingly. Turn the knob counter clockwise if the trailer brakes lock up, or clockwise if there is insufficient braking power when the slider is activated.

Step 3

Accelerate to 25 MPH and apply the trailer brakes using only the manual slide to test the new settings. Repeat the braking and adjustment process until the brake controller has been set to provide sufficient braking power. Accelerate to 25 MPH one more time and test the automatic braking capability of the controller by making a few stops using the tow rig's brake pedal instead of the slider knob.

Step 4

Fine tune the settings of the controller by making several slow speed stops, as if approaching a stop sign. Take note of how the brakes respond and adjust the level knob to increase or decrease the fine tuning of the brake controller. Turn the level knob, located on the left side of the controller, clockwise to reduce an aggressive setting if the brakes lock up. Turn the level knob counter-clockwise to remedy a delayed setting if the trailer feels like it is pushing the tow rig while stopping.

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