Electric Trailer Brakes Lock Up When Trailer is Plugged in to Tow Vehicle

Question

Question:

Hi, my 10x2.25 electric brakes will not release when the 7 way plug is plunged into my truck.My trucks pulls my friends trailer with out problems so I am guessing that the problem is in the trailer.Also the break away is bypassed so that is not it.My controller is a voyager model if that helps.I really appreciate any help or suggestions.

asked by: Dale C

0

Expert Reply:

The easiest first step here would be to try the trailer on a different truck, and see if the same problem occurs. If the trailer brakes are free until the trailer is plugged in, I suspect that something is mis wired. I would suggest examine the wiring where the break away system was bypassed and make sure that the 12-volt accessory feed is not connected to the brake wire at some point.

Are you by chance using a 7 to 6-way adapter? If so, there are two accepted ways of wiring a 6-way connector. One method uses the center pin as the brake output circuit, the other uses the center pin as the 12-volt accessory circuit. If the trailer is wired one way and the adapter the other, the brakes will receive 12-volts as soon as the trailer is plugged in. We offer a universal 7 to 6-way adapter, part # 47549 that can be wired either way which would solve that problem for you.

expert reply by: Mike L

0

Gary H.

4/22/2020

I am having the same issue with my dump trailer. I have had this trailer for several years. I am still using the same tow vehicle. As soon as I plug in to my vehicle the brakes lock up. I tried plugging it into another vehicle and the same thing happens.

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Chris R.

4/24/2020

So we know the problem is on the trailer and it's also not a standard mis-wire, since it's a new issue on an old trailer. What's likely happening is that the brake output wire is shorting out to the frame or a neighboring wire somewhere down the line. I recommend starting at the trailer side connector and visually inspecting it for any corrosion that might be bridging a couple pins together - cleaning out as needed. From there it's really just a matter of trying to trace the brake output wire back to the brake assemblies, looking for any frayed/exposed sections that need to be replaced.

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Gary H.

4/25/2020

I couldn’t find anything wrong with the wiring. I replaced the battery in the trailer and the problem went away.

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Chris R.

4/27/2020

That is odd, but at least the issue is fixed! Please let me know if anything like that pops up again.

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See All (6) Replies to Gary H. ∨

Adrienne

4/28/2024

I have this problem. Can the plug be re wired at home? Would love to talk to you about this. Please call 509-432-4572.

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Mike L.

4/30/2024

@Adrienne If you're using the Hopkins # 47549, it can easily be disassembled and the wires swapped. If you're using a different brand adapter, You'll need to disassemble it by removing the screws on the side of the adapter. Once you get it open, check to see how the wires connect to the terminals. If they're soldered, you CAN swap them, but it's pretty difficult to do so and you'd likely be better off going with the # 47549. If they're attached with screws, swapping the wires will be simple. Please let us know if you have further questions!

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Answer 1

There are a few things that can cause the brakes to lock up on a trailer. First, disconnect the trailer from the vehicle. Then use a circuit tester like #PTW2979 if needed to test the connector on the vehicle. Have someone sit in the truck and run…

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Answer 2

I have a suspicion about what might be causing the problem you mention. Do your trucks have 6-way trailer connectors? Or, do the trucks have 7-way connectors, but you are using a 6-way to 7-way adapters because the trailers use 6-way connectors?…

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Answer 3

To start you will need a base plate, I recommend the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms #BLU93FR. It is a hidden and sturdy design to spread towing force evenly to prevent stress on the towed vehicle. Next you will need a tow bar and safety…

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Answer 4

I am almost certain that the issue is that the connector on your 2015 Chevy Silverado 2500 and the one on the trailer are pinned out differently. I have included a picture that shows how a vehicle and trailer side 7-Way are wired (ignore the colors…

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Answer 5

The light that indicates that the 12 volt circuit is hot is normal and it will not drain the battery. Think of it as the battery having a really long positive terminal that just extends to the rear of the vehicle. If nothing is drawing power from it,…

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Answer 6

The Curt Discovery Trailer Brake Controller, #C84VV, should show only the decimal point dot when the controller is activated and a trailer is not connected. If it shows the dot all the time, the red wire is connected to the wrong side of the stop…

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Answer 7

It sounds like your electric trailer brakes are fully engaged. This could be because of your brake controller sending signal, your breakaway battery sending signal due to a pulled pin, or your trailer brakes needing adjustment. If this is a brand new…

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Answer 8

For a first time flat tow all the information and requirements can seem overwhelming but lets go step by step and see how simple it and safe it actually is. First you need a base plate. This offers a secure mating/connection point to your vehicle. I…

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Answer 9

What you've been told is likely the culprit, and I don't believe that it's coming from an issue on the Curt #C56357 you've installed. I would check the ground wire on the trailer wiring harness to make sure that it is connected to a…

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Answer 10

You have a short on the trailer wiring most likely between the 12 volt accessory circuit, the frame of the trailer, and the brake output circuit of the brake controller. You'll need to go over the wiring of the trailer looking for any obvious…

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Answer 11

Unless something is putting voltage on the brake output circuit of the trailer wiring the brakes of the trailer wouldn't be activated. So if your trailer wasn't plugged into a tow vehicle the trailer's brakes should not be activated…

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Answer 12

It sounds like there is either a short between the 12 volt accessory circuit of your tow bar wiring and the running light circuit or the two circuits are wired backwards. I would use a circuit tester to test the pins of the 7-way on your tow vehicle…

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Electric Trailer Brakes Lock Up When Trailer is Plugged in to Tow Vehicle

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