Trailer Brakes Lock Up at Low Speeds Using a Tekonsha Voyager Brake Controller

Updated 07/05/2012 | Published 07/02/2012

Question:

Ive had this brake system for a few years now and recently the past couple times while towing my trailer , i have a 2007 duramax 1 ton pulling a 18000# holiday trailer and when my automatic transmission shifts down in gears tow haul mode and my foot is on the brake the trailer brakes will sometimes lock up at lower speeds. Ive played with the settings on the controller and have set it according to the instructions and sometimes it works as it should and other times it seems to spike in power and lock up. Any ideas?

asked by: Rob

Expert Reply:

Since it has been a few years, you may want to check the wiring connections for the brake controller and make sure everything is tight and that there are no loose connections or corrosion. Then move on to checking the vehicle and trailer side connectors for corrosion and clean them out. Corrosion can also build up behind the connectors where the wires attach.

If you are still have issues, you can fully engage the manual override and then let it snap back into position. Do this several times. This will clean off the contacts inside the brake controller.

You can also check the trailer brake magnets for wear. If you can see the windings coming through then they will need to be replaced. Also check the power and grounds for the magnets to make sure they are in good shape and that the grounds are attached to clean metal surfaces on the trailer. To further test the magnets, I have included a link to an FAQ that will help.

expert reply by: Michael H