Gooseneck Trailer Brakes Lock Up when Lightly Touching Brake Pedal

Updated 08/01/2016 | Published 07/30/2016

Question:

I have a gooseneck horse trailer and every time I brake, the trailer wheels on the left side lock or stick. It sends the truck into an abrupt halt or makes the truck jump forward a little when I release the brakes. It gets worse sounding when I apply full pressure to the brakes. I heard a trailer wheel lock and skid when I applied the brake, but that was barely pushing on the brake. What is going on?

asked by: Mia

Expert Reply:

There could be a few different things causing the brake lockup on your trailer. First, I assume you have already tried this but you can try adjusting the power output on the brake controller down. It could just be set too high.

If you have a proportional brake controller make sure that it is mounted within the range specified in its manual and that it is not tilted or turned to one side. If the controller has a manual leveling knob on the side make sure it is facing straight up and down. Strange things can happen if the controller is outside or its range or the leveler is not properly adjusted.

There could also be a short. Make sure the truck and trailer side connectors are clean and free of corrosion inside where the wires attach and outside on the pins. On the trailer side inspect the wiring to the magnets and fix and pinched or broken wires.

You can visually inspect the trailer brake magnets and if you can see the copper winding coming through they will need to be replaced. To further test the magnets you can follow the help article I have linked. I have also included some links on testing and troubleshooting brake controllers for you.

expert reply by: Michael H