Self-Adjusting Brakes Will Not Lock Up Trailer After Fresh Install

Updated 08/20/2019 | Published 08/19/2019

Question:

Hi. I just replaced the break backing plate self adjusting and drums on a gooseneck trailer. All Dexter parts from etrailer. Size 12 x 2, 7k axles. I set them per your instruction video for initial setup. I can hear the pads just slightly rubbing when spinning the wheels. When set to 10 and throwing the trolley on the brake controller, on dirt, they will slow the truck, but not lock up. Is this normal or is there something else wrong? I checked each magnet, but not the voltage at the magnet. Is there a break in period? I have to pull a heavy load soon and want to make sure all is good. Thanks.

asked by: Matthew C

Expert Reply:

It does take a few good and hard stops at full power (12 volts) in order to set the braking adjustment on a set of self-adjusting braking assemblies. That said, I would first make sure you are getting a full 12 volts out of your brake controller first. In order to do this you will need to turn the power settings up to max, usually with a knob or buttons on the exterior of the unit. Once you have power at the max settings have a friend apply the manual override which is usually a bar or button on the exterior of the unit and then test the 1 o'clock pin on the 7-way. If you get 12 volts then you are good here and you can move onto testing the wire leading into the brake magnet. There won't be a full 12 volts here, most likely 11ish but if you see less than this then that means you might want to stat looking over the wiring.

Please note that not all electric trailer brakes will lock up the trailer.

expert reply by: Conner L