To test a Tow-Pro Liberty brake controller without a trailer, connect a 5–26W test bulb between the ground and brake output pins on the trailer plug. The LED will show blue (calibrated) or flash blue/green (calibrating).
Pressing the brake or using the override button while adjusting the dial from 0–10 should make the bulb brighten gradually, confirming normal operation. A 5–26W bulb must be used, as higher wattage bulbs like 55W create inrush currents that can trigger false short-circuit detection.
REDARC recommends seeking the support of a qualified auto electrician or technician.
Important
For your safety, REDARC recommends installation by a qualified auto electrician or technician. Our trusted REDNetwork is made up of professional auto electrical businesses certified by REDARC to install the complete of REDARC solutions. Find Your Local Installer
This information is applicable to the following products:
- Tow-Pro Liberty (EBRH-ACCNA)
To test your Tow-Pro Liberty brake controller, connect a 5 - 26W bulb or automotive test light (with a bulb in it, not LED type) between the ‘ground’ pin (no. 1) and ‘brake controller output’ pin (no. 2) of your trailer 7 pin plug.
The Tow-Pro remote head LED should illuminate BLUE (if the unit is calibrated) or flash BLUE/GREEN if calibrating is not yet complete.
With the test light attached for testing, we can either do this in one of two ways:
- Option 1 – While the Tow-Pro is still calibrating (BLUE/GREEN flashing occurring), you can press your foot on the brake pedal and slowly increase the dial from 0 through to 10 you will see the test light go from no brilliance to full brilliance. This is normal operation.
- Option 2 – Once the Tow-Pro is calibrated completely (solid BLUE LED illuminated), simply push in and hold the override button on the remote head and again slowly increase the dial from 0 through to 10 you will see the test light go from no brilliance to full brilliance. This is also normal operation.
These steps are handy to run-through once installation is completed and if you don’t have a trailer available to connect.
Once you do have a trailer available and connected, you have the ability to set the nominal setting. If you feel like you need more braking dial it up, if too much dial it down accordingly.
Why test with a 21W bulb?
Tow-Pro needs to be tested with a 5 – 26W bulb rather than a 55W bulb. The Tow-Pro will check for shorts on the trailer wiring and a cold 55W bulb has an initial “inrush” current as it first warms up that exceeds this trip point, and the Tow-Pro will see this as an intermittent wiring short. While a hot 55W bulb is not likely to reach this trip point, it is best to use a bulb size of approximately 5 -26 watts.
