How to Bench Test Electric Trailer Brake Assemblies and Magnets

Updated 08/09/2013 | Published 08/07/2013

Question:

what would be the proper way to bench test electric trailer brakes? This means the actual brake is not connected to the trailer hub and it is in the shop on the bench.. Any help would be great.

asked by: Lance

Helpful Expert Reply:

Testing your trailer brakes for proper function on the test bench will require a multimeter that can display readings for both amps and ohms, such as part # PT89ZR. (Some brake controllers, such as the Tekonsha P3, have built-in test functions.) You will also need a 12V battery.

Please refer to the linked article concerning the testing procedures for electric trailer brakes. This article includes a table of the correct current values you should read for various sizes and numbers of trailer brake assemblies. It also includes similar data for the resistance values you should read when testing an individual brake magnet for shorts.

expert reply by: Adam R