How to Test Brake Magnets on a Dexter 7,000 Lb Axle

Updated 05/01/2018 | Published 04/29/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display

(3)

$22.17

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

(104)

$1.84

Replacement Trailer Brake Magnet for Dexter Electric Brake Assemblies

(27)

$47.06

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(60)

$12.27

Question:

A previous Q/A about electric brakes stated that you had a way to test the brake magnets. I have 2 brakes on a tri axle trailer that are not working. I think the magnets are bad as when I apply power, I can not hear the hum to these 2, the other 4 hum and lock the brake drum. I would like tho be able to verify that the magnets are bad. I do have power to the connector just in front of the brake. I dont think it is a grounding problem as I used the ground to verify that there was power to the scotch lock connector. I dont know why the joints were not soldered when the trailer was built. These are brakes on Dexter 7,000lb axles. I dont want to spend a lot of money on new magnets if I dont need to. Thank you,

asked by: Bob

Expert Reply:

I have attached a help article that will walk you through step by step the various processes to troubleshoot brake magnets. In order to perform these tasks, you are going to need a multimeter like part # PT89ZR instead of a test light like part # PTW2993. Then depending on where the problem originates, you can use part # 10-1-1 if you need to replace any of the wires and part # BP01-225 if you need to replace any of the magnets.

expert reply by: Conner L