Tekonsha Brake Controller Instructions

Hook the trailer to the tow vehicle after the brake controller has been installed. Plug the trailer's wiring harnesses into the appropriate outlets on the tow vehicle. Turn the knob on the side of the Tekonsha brake controller so that it is at the 12 o'clock position.

Test-drive the vehicle on a paved, flat surface where you can safely reach speeds of approximately 25 miles an hour. After accelerating to 25 miles an hour, push the manual slide on the front of the brake controller to apply the trailer brakes. Decrease the power by turning the power knob counterclockwise if the trailer brakes lock up. Conversely, increase power to the trailer braking system by turning the power knob clockwise if the trailer braking power is insufficient.

Accelerate and stop the trailer using the manual slide on the controller repeatedly, until the trailer brakes receive sufficient power to stop without locking up. Fine-tune the Tekonsha brake controller power setting by driving at low speeds and stopping both the tow rig and the trailer by applying pressure to the vehicle's brake pedal. Make additional adjustments to the power knob, as needed, to comfortably stop the trailer with the automatic response generated by depressing the brake pedal.

Adjust the level settings of the brake controller after the power settings have been confirmed. Drive at low speeds and make a few stops using the tow vehicle's brake pedal to apply braking power. If there is too much braking power, turn the level knob clockwise to remedy an aggressive level setting. To supply additional power for a lack of braking power, or delayed level setting, turn the level knob counterclockwise.