Troubleshooting a Hayes Brake Controller Braking w/ Exhaust Brake

Updated 04/20/2023 | Published 04/19/2023

Question:

I bought a. Hayes air actuated break controller from e- trailer. I had a local shop put it in and whenever the exhaust break is on and its decelerating. The trailer breaks lock up. Also whenever the foot pedal brakes are applied the trailer breaks also lock up even though the dial on the controller is Turned all the way down. I dont understand how the break controller can be working. If the exhaust break is on? Does this make any sense. Have you heard of this before and do you know of a solution.

asked by: Tim D

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Hayes Air Actuated Trailer Brake Controller item # HA100400C is a proportional controller but it will only activate when you manually press your brake pedal. It shouldn't lock the brakes up unless you're standing on them or pressing the manual override though.

It sounds like the controller was installed incorrectly or is malfunctioning. In order to rule out an installation error you will want to check over all your connections. The red wire to the stop light switch circuit is what you will want to focus on. This wire needs to be hooked up to the cold side of the brake light switch which is the wire that only has power when the brakes are applied.

I have linked a diagram below that will show you how the Hayes Brake Controller should be connected.

expert reply by: Jerred H