This guide explains how to correctly test the Tow-Pro Elite V2 and V3 electric brake controllers using a 12 V incandescent globe or test light (5–21 W), as multimeters and LED lights are unsuitable.
It outlines testing at the trailer socket and at the main unit by simulating a trailer load, checking both brake pedal operation and the manual override, with the Tow-Pro control knob changing from green to a shade of red as the test light brightens.
It also covers troubleshooting if the control knob LED does not illuminate and explains why a 21 W bulb is required for models manufactured after June 2016.
REDARC recommends seeking the support of a qualified auto electrician or technician.
Important
For your safety, REDARC recommends installation by a qualified technician. Seek support from a REDARC recommended dealer or installer - Find Your Local Installer
This information applies to the Tow-Pro Electric Brake Controllers that follow:
- Tow-Pro Elite V2 (EBRH-ACCV2E)
- Tow-Pro Elite V3 (EBRH-ACCV3-NA)
Required tools:
- Incandescent globe or test light that has a 12 V bulb with a rating of 5 – 21 W
Note: A multimeter or LED test light is not suitable as it does not supply sufficient load to the electric brake circuit to successfully test an electric brake system.
The Tow-Pro control knob will illuminate once it detects connection to a trailer (or a load like a test light) and will illuminate one of the following colours/combinations on the control knob:
- Green — User-controlled mode
- Blue — Proportional mode
- Alternating green/blue — Active calibration
For testing, the Tow-Pro must be in user-controlled mode (green LED).
If required, change the operating mode as follows:
- Turn the control knob to 0 (fully counterclockwise).
- Push and hold the vehicle brake pedal.
- Push the control knob two times quickly — the control knob LED will change to green.
- Release the vehicle brake pedal.
How to test a Tow-Pro Elite at the trailer socket.
Using an incandescent globe or test light, connect to the trailer socket ground (pin 1) and the brake controller output (pin 2).
Note: this simulates a load like a trailer with electric brakes installed.
How to test the Tow-Pro Elite
How to test the brake pedal operation at the trailer socket
- With the test light connected between pin 1 and pin 2 at the trailer socket, press and hold the brake pedal.
- The control knob LED colour will change from green to a shade of red, and the test light will illuminate.
- Rotate the dial from 0 – 10 for a gradual increase in brightness on the globe/test light, this confirms correct operation of Tow-Pro.
- Once normal operation is confirmed, change to your preferred operating mode and adjust the braking level to suit your application.
How to test the manual override function at the trailer socket
Note: To make this test procedure easier, a second person may be required.
- With the test light connected between pin 3 and pin 5 at the trailer socket, push and hold the control knob.
- The control knob LED colour will change from green to a shade of red, and the test light will illuminate.
- Push and hold the control knob, and at the same time, turn the control knob from 0 – 10. There should be a gradual increase in brightness on the globe/test light. This confirms correct operation of the Tow-Pro.
How to test at the main unit — preparation
For testing, the Tow-Pro must be in user-controlled mode (green LED).
- Connect the test light between blue and white wires of the 4-pin connector of the Tow-Pro main unit.
Note: This can be achieved by either probing the wiring or back probing the 4-pin connector.
The control knob LED will illuminate. - If required, change the operating mode to user-controlled mode (green LED).
The Tow-Pro is now ready for testing.
How to test the brake pedal operation at the main unit
Note: To make this test procedure easier, a second person may be required.
- With the test light connected between blue and white wires at the Tow-Pro module, push and hold the brake pedal.
- The control knob LED colour will change from green to a shade of red, and the test light will illuminate.
- Rotate the dial from 0 – 10 for a gradual increase in brightness on the globe/test light, this confirms correct operation of Tow-Pro.
- Once normal operation is confirmed, the unit can be switched back to your preferred mode and adjusted to suit your application.
How to test the manual override function at the main unit
Note: To make this test procedure easier, a second person may be required.
- With the test light connected between blue and white wire at the Tow-Pro main unit, push and hold the control knob.
- The control knob LED colour will change from green to a shade of red, and the test light will illuminate.
- Push and hold the control knob, and at the same time, turn the control knob from 0 – 10. There should be a gradual increase in brightness on the globe/test light. This confirms correct operation of the Tow-Pro.
What if there is no illumination on the remote?
If the Tow-Pro control knob LED does not illuminate, you may have a poor connection at the trailer socket, or will need to check the power supply at the Tow-Pro main unit.
Test the power supply as follows:
- Locate the Tow-Pro main unit.
- Connect the test light between the black wire (B+) and the white wire (B-) at the Tow-Pro without disconnecting the loom.
Note: The best way to do this test is either probe the wiring or back-probe the 4-pin connector. - The test light should illuminate.
Shown below as black (+) and white (-):
