Installed New Trailer Brakes, Getting Power on Brake Output Circuit, But Brakes Not Functioning
Updated 08/31/2009 | Published 08/24/2009
Question:
My brakes stopped working. I installed new magnets & new shoes. Brakes still do not work. The hot wire to brakes has fire, yet the brakes do not work. What could cause this?
asked by: wesley
Expert Reply:
I would suspect either a faulty ground connection on the brake magnets or the brakes need adjusting. Make sure that one lead from each brake magnet is securely grounded to clean metal on the trailer frame. I am including a video link to installation of brake magnets on a trailer.
If the brakes themselves are actuating, but not providing stopping power, you might need to re-adjust the brakes if you have not already.
To adjust your brakes, you will want use a brake adjustment tool and turn the adjustment gear which is accessible through the back of the brake assembly. You will want to tighten the gear so that you cannot turn the wheel, then you will want to back the gear off 10 clicks. This will be the proper adjustment for the brakes and will need to be repeated on each brake assembly of the trailer.
Another adjustment you will want to make is with your brake controller. If your brake controller is already plugged in, you will want to unplug it for a few minutes then plug it back in to make new settings. Then, you will want to drive down the road and engage the brakes using the manual over ride switch on the brake controller to warm the brakes. Warming the brakes will simulate temperatures of brakes when they are in operation. Then you will follow the instructions on your brake controller as if you were first installing the brake controller.
I am including a video link to a trailer brake installation that will show you how to adjust the brake shoes on a trailer.
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