Troubleshooting Trailer Brakes Locking Up When Brakes Are Applied

Published 01/02/2015

Question:

I have a tandem axel trailer with the engager system on it and the forward axel brakes lock up when you use the brakes. What ::ould cause this?

asked by: Don

Expert Reply:

The lock up issue you are having shouldn't be related to the Engager Breakaway System part # 20099 that you have installed on your trailer. There are other factors to consider when dealing with trailer brakes that lock up.

You either have the gain set too high on your brake controller or there is a short from the stoplight circuit to the brake output circuit and the brake assemblies are getting a full 12 volts everytime you step on the brakes. Typically corrosion in the trailer connector or cut or exposed wiring near the connectors causes this.

Try adjusting the gain down lower on your brake controller to see if that helps as well.

I attached a couple FAQ articles on brake controllers and breakaway systems to the right for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C