Why is my Tow-Pro BREATHING BLUE?
BREATHING
Refers to the Tow-Pro remote head LED intensifying and then diminishing in brightess when the remote head button is pressed, this signifies the Tow Pro is in STANDBY MODE.
WHAT IS STANDBY MODE?
Standby mode is when the Tow-Pro is connected to a power source, however, remains in an OFF status and will not operate until it is activated by the connection of a trailer with a braking system via the vehicle trailer plug.
MY TOW-PRO IS IN STANDBY MODE WHEN I HAVE NO TRAILER CONNECTED
This is normal operation for the Tow-Pro. The Tow-Pro will remain in standby mode until a trailer with a braking system is connected via the vehicle trailer plug.
MY TOW-PRO IS IN STANDBY MODE WHEN I CONNECT A TRAILER WITH A BRAKING SYSTEM
If your Tow-Pro remains in standby mode when a trailer with a breaking system is connected, the Tow-Pro is not sensing a connection to the trailer. If you commence towing while the Tow-Pro is in standby mode there will be no trailer braking.
HOW WILL THIS APPEAR?
The LED of your Tow-Pro remote head will not illuminate unless the Tow-Pro remote head button is pressed and, when it does illuminate, if it is breathing* blue this signifies that the device is in standby mode.
HOW TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THIS FAULT:
Please note: Diagnostic testing is required to idenitfy the cause of this fault. REDARC recommends you seek the support of an installer where possible, however please see below for a list of the commen causes and how to fix these issues.
Common causes of the Tow-Pro incorrectly remaining in standby mode:
Dirty, corroded or under tensioned pins on the Trailer plug (trailer) and base (vehicle):
- Ensure the trailer plug pins are clean and not bent inwards (male pins on trailer side of plug).
- Use a product such as RP7 or WD40 to clean the pins if corroded or dirty and/or a small flat blade screwdriver to help straighten any bent pins.
- Re-connect the trailer plug to the base and check to see if the fault code is still being displayed.
Loose or disconnected wires in the trailer plug (trailer) and base (vehicle):
Examine the integrity of the wiring connection at the trailer plug and the base.
- Remove the covers from both the plug and the base to facilitate access. If necessary, detach the trailer base from its vehicle mount.
- Carefully inspect all the wiring to confirm that the wires are securely fastened beneath the connection screws.
- Pay particular attention to pin 5 (output wire (blue) that connects the Tow-Pro unit to the trailers electric brakes) and pin 3 (earth pin).
- Re-assemble covers and refit base to vehicle, connect trailer plug to the base and check for Tow-Pro LED activation.
Broken or damaged wire between the Tow-Pro and trailer brakes:
Locating broken or damaged wiring involves tracing the cable and visually inspecting it to detect any signs of damage, especially in areas susceptible to rubbing or strain.
This can occur on either the vehicle or trailer.
Vehicle: The blue output wire originating from the Tow-Pro main unit (typically installed beneath the dashboard) runs the full length of the vehicle until it reaches and connects to pin number 5 of the trailer plug base.
Trailer: The electrical brake wire originates from pin 5 of the trailer plug and extends to the electric braking system. For trailers equipped with electric brakes, the wiring will directly connect from pin 5 to the brakes on each wheel of the trailer.
In the case of trailers featuring electric/hydraulic brakes, the wiring will extend from pin 5 to the pump assembly, typically located on the A-frame of the trailer.
Identifying the exact location of any damaged or broken wiring involves a step-by-step diagnostic testing process that requires specialized equipment. REDARC recommends to seek the support of an installer.
