Prodigy users question

[Dmaxcc6spd]

I need some input from Prodigy users - specifically those towing between 10 and 14K pounds. What is your initial gain setting and what boost level are you using?

The brakes seem somewhat aggressive at slow speeds, but I don't notice much at higher speeds. Everything seems to slow OK when getting off the interstate. Either this controller is more sophisticated than my last controller, or it is defective.

I appreciate you info,

Thanks!

 

[katkens]

I have found in slow or stop an go traffic if you lower your boost setting it gives smoother operation. I generally just turn the boost off instead of lowering it and apply the boost setting back on as speeds increase. Then again your boost might be to high of a setting to begin with if you are on the high boost setting ,try dropping down one setting on boost.....Kenny

 

[jnbhobe]

As Kenny said just adjust the boost to your needs. Jon

 

[truknutt]

Dmax,

From the Tekonsha Prodigy Owner's Tow Card & Owner's Instructions:

Setting The Power​

1. Once you’ve connected the brake control’s electrical wire harness to the vehicle and mounted Prodigy, connect the trailer’s electrical connector to the tow vehicle.

2. With (Boost Level 1 and) engine running hold manual (lever) full left and set power knob to indicate 6.0. ​

3. Drive tow vehicle and trailer on a dry level paved surface at 25 mph and fully apply manual knob.​

4. If the trailer wheels lock up, slightly reduce power by adjusting the power knob. If the wheels turn freely, increase power to a point just before wheel lock up. ​

There is a note...

NOTE:
For optimal performance: All electric trailer brake controls require you to “warm the brakes” before setting the power. To warm brakes, drive a short distance (1/4 mile) at 45 MPH with manual lever engaged approximately halfway.​

I have a Prodigy in two of my trucks and each one ends up with slightly different settings for the same trailer. I suspect that a lot of my problem is that I don't (and who does?) follow the instructions regarding warming up the brakes. I end up squeeling at the the first couple of stop signs but it gets everyone's attention!! I even tried marking the gain wheel to make it easier to set up but that is sometimes off by a 1/4 wheel. A fluxuation in weight will affect the settings, also. Haul a 12,000 lb dump trailer fully overloaded and then empty...this is when Ken's advice to turn up/down the Boost comes into play!!​

Hope this helps some...​

 

[ct0218]

Like Ken said, it is a somewhat variable setting. I have several diffent trailers that I pull, the Landmark, large utility, and a heavy gooseneck. Each has its own settings. I have a card that i made up for all three, initial/stop and go and open road. The brakes can develop a light coat of rust if it is very humid and parked, and that can make them grab initially. I keep the card on my visor.

 

[katkens]

I would also adjust the brakes , mine where way out of adjustment. I was surprised really how far it took to get them to start dragging and that was after I took one short trip before I checked them....Kenny

 

[Dmaxcc6spd]

Thanks for the tips. I'll give them a try next time I tow!

 

[DougLynne]

Initially I had mine szet at B1 but was not happy with the braking so I upped to to B2 and am much happier. Every once in a while I get the trailer brakes locking up but that is fairly rare.../Doug