Brand New 7k Dexter Brake Assemblies on Trailer are Not Strong Enough

Updated 10/26/2017 | Published 10/25/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Right Hand - 7,000 lbs

(102)

$99.73

Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Right Hand - 7,000 lbs

(189)

$152.10

Brake Adjustment Spoon for Drum Brakes

(219)

$8.08

Question:

Just installed 6 brand new dexter 7k backing plate break assemblies on my 2014 triple axle 40’ flatbed gooseneck trailer everything is was correctly installed and wired right when installed. When testing breaks after installation, with trailer gain set on 10 breaks failed to hold truck and trailer. Or even slow it down greatly, the breaks are engaging. They are very weak. Have checked truck and trailer wiring everything is correct. I’m thinking maybe trailer break wiring isn’t thick enough

asked by: James D

Expert Reply:

Whether you have the 7K Dexter brake assemblies like part # 23-181 or like the Nev-R-Adjust # 23-465, you may simply need to adjust the brakes. Even if your brake controller is set to the highest setting, if your brakes are not adjusted properly then they will not perform correctly.

You can adjust your brakes using the Brake Adjustment Spoon for Drum Brakes # W80630 until they are set at the desired braking strength. If you check out the attached review video you can see the access holes you will use to adjust the brakes.

I have also attached a helpful article on testing the magnets on your brakes. Since they are new brakes I doubt the magnets will be bad, but you can still test them if adjusting them doesn't work.

The wire that you should be using for the brakes is 10-12 Gauge wire. Anything smaller than that would be the problem.

expert reply by: Jon G