Weak Trailer Brakes on 5th Wheel Trailer Using Factory Integrated Brake Control on 2015 Ford F-250

Updated 09/09/2020 | Published 06/10/2016

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Question:

2015 F250 - integrated brake control I have a 2015 Ford F250 Crew cab, towing a 35 ft 5th wheel trailer, i seem to have adequate braking using the pedal, but very light amount of braking using the manual control, even when I up the setting to a 10. I would like to be able to lock the brakes up when using the manual control if this is possible.

asked by: Jerry

Expert Reply:

The trailer brakes are probably equally as weak with the brake pedal pressed on your 2015 Ford F-250 it just doesn't feel that way because the truck itself is also braking. Nine times out of ten the issue can be resolved by adjusting the brakes on the trailer. When adjusting trailer brakes you will want to hear a slight but constant drag of the pads on the drums when the wheels are turned. To see how this is done check out the video I attached. Fast forward to the 4:30 mark. To adjust the brakes I recommend an adjustment tool # W80630.

If this does not resolve the issue then there could be less voltage at the brake magnets. This could result from damaged wiring or dirty/corroded trailer connectors on the truck or vehicle. If you suspect the brake controller is the issue then you would want to speak with a Ford technician since it is a factory brake controller.

Something else to consider is that locking up the wheels on the trailer results in less control the same as it would be on a vehicle (which is why anti-lock brakes are now common). You want the trailer brakes to be at a point just under wheel lock up so that there is more control leading to more safety.

expert reply by: Michael H

Rick

9/6/2020

We are experiencing the same issue with our 2015 F-250. We replaced the wheel backplate assemblies From etrailer on the fifth wheel and did not help. Even sprayed the trailer connections with contact cleaner and the problem still exists. Would etrailer have troubleshooting measurements to help diagnose?

Jon G.

9/9/2020

Have you followed the steps that Michael mentioned above for troubleshooting or did you just replace the backplate assemblies and apply spray to your connections? Michael mentions physically adjusting the brakes as well as inspecting all the wiring as well so if you haven't done that then that's where you need to start.

Rick

9/9/2020

@JonG We adjusted the brakes on initial install with 1/4 turn rotation. We did not check voltage at magnet connections, which I will check this weekend. Assume, I should see same voltage at magnet connection as seven pin connector. If not I’ll go to Ford and get their feedback. We used to have a 26’ Trailer and at (6.5) gain on this controller you could lock the trailer up. I know this 37’ fifth wheel is much heavier, but with Mac gain (10) you can’t come close. John, thank you for responding. I really appreciate it.