Brake Buddy

[J. Ingram]

I have a brake buddy. When I hook it up the pressure builds up and when I push the test button it works only once and then the sensitivity lights go out and then nothing. I have to unplug and try again with the same results. Anyone have this problem? If so, what is the answer?

[Leary54]

Your car battery is not putting out enough volts. Try running your car for a few minutes. If that helps then maybe it's time to buy a new one.

[Libero]

Without additional technical details it it is difficult to determine the cause of the failure you noted.

It may well be low voltage under load but that does not necessarily mean the problem is battery or power source related. If everything is working on the tow vehicle it is likely your source power is OK. The problem could be a poor connection or some other resistance component in the brake circuit. After first checking all connections including the ground connection, I suggest you measure the voltage at the brake unit under load and likewise measure the voltage at the battery under the same load scenario. If there is a significant potential difference between those two points then line resistance caused a voltage drop on the line. (Small size wire or a bad connection could cause an unusual voltage drop)

You could also measure the current flow in the brake circuit to determine if sufficient current is there to operate the brake system.

In any case it appears to be a power related problem, but it is not necessarily attributed to your battery. You need to do more trouble shooting to isolate the problem source.

Good luck.

[Knightly]

I have used the brake buddy system since 2007. I had a failure of the pressure system with the first two years. I sent the system back to the factory where it was repaired and returned with a possible cause and recommended solution. The possible cause was insufficient voltage from the cigarette lighter causing the compressor to fail prematurely. The solution was a dedicated 12V fixture c/w heavier wire. Brake Buddy sent me all the extra parts at no cost. I installed the new 12V plug on the driver's side and have not had a problem since. I also have a wireless remote in the MH so I can tell when the Brake Buddy is braking. One small tip.... I used to place the BB on my rubber floor mat but now place it directly on the carpet. This allows the the BB to react much better at slower speeds. Over all, I am very satisfied with the product and support from the company.

Knightly

[J. Ingram]

I thank you for your suggestions. I also sent an e-mail to brake buddy and explained my problem. They confirmed the same. They make a wiring kit that hooks directly to the battery posts. They sent me this kit ( no charge) to alleviate the problem.