Trailer Brakes Lock Up When Connected to 2011 Dodge Ram 3500 with Factory Brake Controller

Updated 10/10/2011 | Published 10/08/2011

Question:

I have a stock trailer that my Ford had no issues with. But with my new Ram 3500, the brakes lock up and the trailer wont move. Why would the problem exist with the Dodge and not with the Ford? Both vehicles have a factory installed brake controller.

asked by: Carol

Expert Reply:

If the trailer has electric over hydraulic brakes, then the factory integrated brake controller in your 2011 Dodge Ram is not compatible. We have an FAQ article on the issue which I have linked for you.

If the trailer just has electric brakes, try adjusting the factory brake controller, it may be set too aggressively for the trailer brakes.

You will also want to check the trailer connectors on the truck and trailer to make sure there is no dirt or corrosion build up in or behind the trailer connectors. A short to the brake output circuit could use this problem.

If the problem occurred suddenly, you will want to check the pins on the 7-Way to make sure they are all working properly and match the configuration on the trailer connector. You may find that the 2 are configured differently and you will need to re-wire one or both connectors to make them compatible.

If you check the vehicle side trailer connector without the trailer attached and it is sending power down the brake circuit then you know these is a problem with the truck wiring that should be looked at by the dealer. If all the signals on the truck side are fine then you know the problem is on the trailer.

You can also check the trailer magnets. I have included a link to an FAQ article on testing trailer magnets for you.

expert reply by: Michael H