Troubleshooting Self-Adjusting Brakes Locking Up

Updated 06/19/2019 | Published 06/17/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Left Hand - 7,000 lbs

(180)

$162.07

Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Right Hand - 7,000 lbs

(189)

$152.10

Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display

(3)

$22.17

Question:

I have the never adjust brakes on my 2018 384gk solitude fifth wheel 42 ft - 17,000 When I come out a corner I have a brake or brakes grabbing badly. So bad at times you stop to check to be sure it did not pull out of hitch, damage tires, suspension etc. I am getting ready to tear them apart to see if I can find the problem. Is there any history on this issue and/or what should I be looking for.

asked by: Randy A

Expert Reply:

I can help you try and figure out why your Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brake Assembly like parts # 23-465 and # 23-464 are locking up and there are a multitude of reasons.

When this happens it is often an electrical issue or the brake magnets so check out your 7-way to ensure there is no corrosion which will be white or green which may be hampering the functionality of your brakes; if so, clean as necessary and that may resolve the issue.

Next, you need to use Digital Multimeter # PT89ZR and test the voltage at the brake circuit on the connector when you have the brakes applied; make sure it is a low setting on the brake controller. The voltage should be well under 12 volts, because 12 volts is the max output for a brake controller. If you do see 12 volts there is some issue along the wiring going up to the brake controller, or possibly with the brake controller.

This could be the wiring being frayed or damaged so go along the wires and look for any problems and fix or replace as needed.

Wiring is almost always the issue with electric brakes that lock up so if you inspect this you are likely going to find the solution.