Troubleshooting Trailer Brakes that Lock Up When Brakes are Touched

Question:

I have installed your 10inch electric brake kit with new drums. No matter how low the brake controller is set the brakes on the trailer lock up as soon as the truck pedal is pushed. I have installed trailer brakes many times and have never had this problem. I have tried everything, adjusting brakes loser, checked all the wiring, etc. I know the brake controller in the truck is ok because I have 2 other trailers and it works fine when towing them. This has got me stumped. Any ideas or things to check would be great. Thanks.

asked by: Frank H

Expert Reply:

Sounds like you have a short between the stoplight/blinker circuit of your trailer wiring and the brake output circuit which is putting full 12 volts on the brake output circuit any time you touch the brakes which locks them up.

I'd recommend going over the wiring of the trailer looking for any cut or exposed wire and fix as needed.

expert reply by: Jameson C