What Would Cause Constant Power To Electric Brakes

Question:

Hi, the brakes on my trailer have quit working. I have inspected the wiring and found that I have 12v to the brake coils whenever the wiring connector is plugged into the truck ignition on or off. The truck is a 2015 Ram 2500 and is working fine with other trailers, but indicates trailer not connectedfoot with this trailer. I suspect a short between the blue trailer brake controller output and the black 12v power wires. Do you agree with my diagnosis? I have renewed all the wiring from the trailer end wire connector cable to the brakes control voltage and ground. That leaves the wire connector cable. Would the Hopkins 7-Way Molded Trailer Wire Connector - 11foot Long be a good replacement. I need the length as it is a gooseneck trailer.

asked by: Jerry G

Expert Reply:

I would first recommend checking to see if the breakaway pin is still intact. If the pin has not been pulled, you will want to begin by checking the trailer connectors for dirt or corrosion on both the inside and outside. Once the breakaway pin and trailer connectors are checked, you will need to start tracing the wires back from the trailer connector while checking for breaks or frays.

I would agree with your suspicious that you have a short somewhere on the 12v wire on the trailer's wiring harness. However, if you can still not find the short and wish to replace the wiring harness on your trailer, then yes, the Hopkins 7-Way Molded Trailer Wire Connector part # HM20048 is an excellent replacement option for you.

expert reply by: Conner L