One Side Of Electric Trailer Brakes Are Locking Up When Braking

Updated 03/16/2011 | Published 03/15/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Right Hand - 6,000 lbs

(194)

$88.94

Replacement Trailer Brake Magnet for 12" Brake Assemblies

(39)

$29.03

Question:

Driving trailer with new truck left brakes seems to be locking up before the right brake and skiding on road surface took apart both sides and see no diference is it possible that the adjustment is off from side to side. left tire seems to be more worn also so my have been acting up for awhile is ther away to check with truck hook up while there apart to see if they are working

asked by: Jan K

Expert Reply:

There are a few things you can check to make sure the brakes are adjusted correctly, but it sounds like there may be a short in the system. I would start by checking the trailer wiring connector on the truck and trailer for corrosion. If there is corrosion in either connector, it will need to be replaced.

Next, I would inspect the wiring on the trailer, for any cut or frayed wires. It is possible that maybe only one brake assembly is getting power. You will also want to check the ground connections on each brake assembly, and make there is a good ground to a clean metal surface.

Then, you can check and adjust each brake assembly from the back of the brake assembly. You will want use a brake adjustment tool and turn the adjustment gear which is accessible from the back of the brake assembly. You will want to tighten the gear so that you cannot turn the hub or wheel, then you will want to back the gear off 10 clicks. This will be the proper adjustment for the brakes and will need to be repeated on each brake assembly of the trailer (see video link). After making this adjustment you will want to also reset the brake controller. Unplug your brake controller for a few minutes then plug it back in, to make new settings. Then, you will want to drive down the road and engage the brakes using the manual over ride switch on the brake controller to warm the brakes. Warming the brakes will simulate temperatures of brakes when they are in operation. Then you will follow the instructions on your brake controller as if you were first installing the brake controller.

If you are still having problems, you will want to remove the hub and check the brake magnets for wear. If you can see windings or wear marks on the magnets they will need to be replaced with Trailer Brake Magnet, part # BP01-180.

expert reply by: Reno H