Why Would Trailer Brakes Lock Up Only in Reverse with Surge Brake Trailer

Updated 06/13/2018 | Published 06/11/2018

Question:

Good morning, I have a 2013 diamond city tandem trailer 22foot tritoon boat trailer. My right front tire is heating up as I tow the trailer. The trailer has approximately 50 miles on it due non use of the boat because of my health issues.. only pull it to the gas station approximately 3 miles from the house and the boat ramp is here in the backyard. Its possible the emergency cable was pulled at the dealership last week when taking in for service. The young man that returned my boat back to the house left skid marks approximately 50 feet backing it up to park the boat. I know its possible that he didnt have it plugged into a five flat connector to release the brake to back it up.

asked by: Freddie T

Expert Reply:

Sounds like the reverse lock out solenoid wasn't activated since the brakes locked up when the guy was trying to back the trailer up. Since it only happened in reverse that would almost guarantee that is the problem. Did you check the air pressure in the tire? Typically a low inflated tire will cause excess heat build up. You'd want to make sure you have the max pressure in the tire listed on the sidewall to prevent that.

expert reply by: Jameson C