5th Wheel Trailer Brakes Randomly Come On But Brakes on Another Trailer Work Fine

Updated 09/27/2016 | Published 09/26/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement Breakaway Switch for Bright Way Trailer Breakaway Kits

(160)

$23.99

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

(104)

$1.89

Question:

I have a fifth wheel camper and when pulling it the other day the brakes would randomly kick on and off. The breakaway looked fine and I got underneath to check connections didnt see anything obvious do you have any suggestions on where to start looking. I believe my truck side is fine because my other trailer with brakes works fine

asked by: Tyler S

Expert Reply:

If you have another trailer with electric brakes and it works fine then the problem is likely on the 5th wheel trailer. The most common cause of brakes randomly coming on is a short or loose connection.

Check the trailer side connector and make sure that it is clean and free of corrosion inside where the wires attach and outside on the pins. Trace the brake wire from the connector (5 o'clock position if looking at the back of it) as much as you can. Check for and fix any damaged, exposed, or pinched wiring.

If there is wiring that you cannot get to you can bypass that wiring, either temporarily or permanently, by attaching a length of wire, # 10-1-1 sold by the foot, from the brake magnet wiring to the 7-Way.

Also be sure to check the magnet wiring and fix/replace if needed.

The magnets themselves could be shorting out. You can follow the help article I have linked to test the magnets.

expert reply by: Michael H