Troubleshooting Trailer Brake Controller Locking Up Trailer Brakes When Brake Pedal Is Pressed

Updated 10/12/2021 | Published 10/10/2021

Question:

I recently bought a truck that had a aftermarket free controller in it and I hauled my camper for the first time and as soon as I stepped on the brakes they would lock up immediately I’m not sure what is going on

asked by: Patrick S

Expert Reply:

I would be happy to help!

There are a few simple things to check first, starting with that the braking power of the controller is not turned all the way up. On trailer brake controllers you want the power setting set so that you get the most braking power without locking up the wheels. To test this take your trailer to an empty parking lot and at around 25 MPH apply the brakes. If the brakes lock up then turn down the braking power, and if you do not feel the brakes are firm enough then turn up the power.

If you can tell me the specific model number and brand of your controller I would be happy to go over the exact process on how to adjust the power, but there is typically a wheel or arrows that says power/gain. It is usually pretty straight forward.

I included a link to a help article that goes over the different kinds of controllers and has quite a bit of helpful information .

expert reply by: Samuel C