Product Details
- Brand: Reese
- Model: 78081
- UPC: 042899780816
- Includes: Voyager Electric Brake Controller
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Reese Trailer Brake Control Voyager Electric Trailer Module Box Controller 78081 Install Notes
Installation Instructions for Voyager Electronic Brake Control
Part Number:
- N78081
Components Included:
- (1) Brake Control Unit
- (1) Mounting Bracket
- (2) #6 x 3/8" Mounting Screws
- (1) Installation Manual
Tools Required:
- Drill with 1/8" Bit
- Screwdriver
- Wire Crimpers
- Wire Strippers
- Probe-Type Circuit Tester
- Cable Ties
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions:
Step 1: Choose a Suitable Mounting Location
- Mount the brake control in a location where the driver can easily access it without obstructing visibility or movement.
- Ensure the mounting surface is solid and free of obstructions behind it.
Step 2: Mount the Bracket
- Position the mounting bracket on the chosen surface and mark the hole locations.
- Drill 1/8” pilot holes at the marked locations.
- Secure the bracket using the provided #6 x 3/8" screws. Do not overtighten.
Step 3: Install the Brake Control Unit
- Slide the brake control into the mounting bracket.
- Secure the unit in place using the adjustment screws on the bracket. Ensure the unit is level with the direction of travel and within the recommended mounting angles:
- -20° (nose down) to +70° (nose up).
Wiring Instructions:
Wiring Connections
- Black Wire: Vehicle Power
- White Wire: Vehicle Ground
- Red Wire: Stoplight Switch (activated by brake pedal)
- Blue Wire: Trailer Brakes
Wiring Process
- Locate the vehicle’s stoplight switch wire using a circuit tester.
- Connect the wires using appropriate crimp connectors or butt connectors:
- Black wire to vehicle’s positive power source.
- White wire to vehicle ground.
- Red wire to the stoplight switch output.
- Blue wire to the trailer brake output circuit.
- Secure all wiring using cable ties to prevent loose or dangling connections.
Adjustments:
Step 1: Level the Sensor
- Connect the trailer to the tow vehicle.
- Ensure the bi-colored LED glows green, indicating a trailer connection.
- Turn the power knob fully clockwise to maximum.
- Depress the vehicle brake pedal.
- Rotate the level knob counter-clockwise until the LED changes from green to red.
- Slowly rotate the knob clockwise until the LED glows orange:
- Dim Orange: Typical Setting
- Bright Orange: Aggressive Setting
- Dim Red: More Aggressive Setting
- Release the brake pedal.
Step 2: Adjust the Power
- Set the power knob to the 12 o’clock position.
- Drive the vehicle and trailer on a dry, level surface at 25 mph.
- Apply the manual slide knob to test the trailer brakes:
- If the trailer brakes lock up, reduce the power by rotating the knob counter-clockwise.
- If braking is insufficient, increase the power by rotating the knob clockwise.
- Repeat until the braking force provides maximum braking without wheel lockup.
Fine Tuning:
- Perform slow stops at 25 mph and adjust the level knob to achieve the desired braking response:
- Rotate the level knob clockwise to reduce braking aggression.
- Rotate counter-clockwise to reduce delay in braking.
Maintenance:
- Regularly inspect all connections for wear or corrosion.
- Verify that the mounting screws remain tight.
- Test the brake control before each use to ensure proper function.
Troubleshooting:
LED Indicators:
- Green: Trailer connected.
- Red: Brake pedal or manual control activated.
- Flashing Red or Dim Red: Fault in the brake line or insufficient power.
Common Issues and Resolutions:
- No LED Light:
- Check power and ground connections.
- Inspect trailer plug contacts for corrosion.
- Brake Aggression Too High:
- Adjust level knob clockwise.
- Reduce power setting.
- Delayed Braking Response:
- Adjust level knob counter-clockwise.
- Increase power setting.
Safety Notes:
- Do not mount or operate RF-emitting devices (e.g., cell phones, two-way radios) within 12 inches of the brake control.
- Disconnect the trailer plug before testing the breakaway switch to avoid damage to the control.
- Ensure that the combined weight of the trailer and vehicle does not exceed the manufacturer’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR).
Specifications:
- Brake Applications: 2, 4, 6, and 8 Brakes
- Voltage Requirements: 12V DC
- Mounting Angle Range: -20° to +70°
Installation Instructions for 7-Way Trailer Tow Harness
Part Number:
- N78071
Tools Required:
- Drill with 1/4” and 3/32” Drill Bits
- 2” Hole Saw
- 5/16” Socket
- Center Punch
- Rust-Proof Coating (Not Provided)
Safety Warnings:
- Verify Surface Before Drilling: Check behind surfaces to avoid damage to the vehicle or personal injury.
- Avoid Hot Components: Route wiring carefully to avoid hot pipes, heat shields, the fuel tank, or any moving parts.
- Secure All Wiring: Loose wiring may cause damage or malfunction.
- Wear safety glasses and use all safety precautions during installation.
Installation Steps:
Step 1: Determine Mounting Location
- Locate a suitable mounting point on the tow vehicle, typically on the driver’s side between the rear cab post and the wheel well.
- Ensure the selected mounting location has sufficient clearance for the adapter.
Step 2: Drill the Mounting Hole
- Drill a 1/4” pilot hole in the chosen location using a center punch to mark the spot.
- Recheck your mounting location and wire lengths.
- Use a 2” hole saw to finish cutting the mounting hole.
CAUTION
- Verify what is behind the surface before drilling to avoid damage.
- If the vehicle has a bedliner, notch the liner or use longer screws to mount directly through the liner into the body panel.
- Apply rust-proof coating to drilled areas to prevent rusting.
Step 3: Route the Wire Connectors
- Route the factory wire connectors (OE connectors) carefully through the 2” hole.
- Avoid scraping or damaging the wires against the sharp edges of the drilled hole.
Step 4: Mount the 7-Way Plug
- Use the 7-Way plug as a guide to mark the mounting holes with a center punch.
- Slide the 7-Way plug back and drill four 3/32” holes at the marked locations.
- Mount the 7-Way plug using the (4) provided self-tapping screws.
NOTE
- If the 90-degree corner of the 7-Way plug is too close to the outside wall of the truck bed, use the included spacer between the plug and the vehicle surface.
Step 5: Connect the 7-Way Harness
- Locate the vehicle’s 7-Way factory harness near or on the rear bumper.
- Carefully disconnect the factory connector, ensuring the locking tabs are not damaged.
- Connect the Trailer Tow Harness between the mating plugs.
NOTE
- On Dodge vehicles, the factory connector is rectangular.
- All connections must be fully seated for proper functionality.
Step 6: Verify Connections and Test
- Test the harness with a trailer or test light to confirm proper functionality. Ensure all connections are complete and secure.
NOTE
- Some vehicles may require the addition of a fuse or relay (not included) to activate all 7-Way functions. Refer to your vehicle's owner manual for the fuse or relay location.
Step 7: Secure the Wiring
- Route all wiring away from hot pipes, sharp edges, and moving parts.
- Secure all loose wires using cable ties or similar methods to prevent pinching or damage.
Maintenance:
- Periodically inspect all wiring connections for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage.
- Reapply rust-proof coating to drilled areas as necessary to maintain long-term protection.
Important Notes:
- Proper installation of the 7-Way harness is required to ensure trailer lighting, braking, and other functions operate correctly.
- Always test the trailer connections before towing to confirm safe and proper operation.
Attention:
This is a summary of the installation procedure. For complete installation instructions, including diagrams and detailed information from the manufacturer, please download the full installation PDF.
Technical Support:
For technical support and assistance, our team of experts is available to help. You can reach our tech support by visiting www.trailerjacks.com or calling 877-869-6690.
Warranty:
The product comes with a [X]-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. For complete warranty instructions, please download the full installation PDF.