Brakes on 2011 Komfort Resort Tandem Axle Trailer Not Engaging Properly

Published 09/16/2011

Question:

I am towing a 2011 Komfort Resort tandem axle trailer with my 1999 Expedition. The proportional brake contoller is new and so is the 7 pin plug on my truck. I noticed coming back from a long trip that the driver side brakes were hot and the passenger side were cold. I pulled the hubs and the passenger side looked new and the driver side was dirty. I washed everything down and adjusted the shoes to just touching. I set the manual slide switch to 12 volts and turned the wheels by hand. Driver side locked and the passenger side did not. The magnets did engage the brakes but they did not lock. Should I open the connectors and check the voltage getting through to each magnet? Please advise.

asked by: Ralph R

Expert Reply:

I would begin by inspecting the magnets on the trailer brakes. If the magnets have windings or wear marks, the magnets are bad and will need to be replaced. You would need to match up your brake assembly size for the correct replacement magnet.

The next thing you will want to check is the wiring to the brake assembly and the magnets. Make sure that the brake assembly has a good connection and that there are no cut or frayed wires. You will want to make sure the magnets are connected to a clean metal surface for a good ground connection.

Finally, you can test the amperage on your trailer brakes (see FAQ).

expert reply by: Reno H