Troubleshooting Trailer Brakes Will Not Lock Up When Using Curt Echo Trailer Brake Controller

Updated 08/15/2023 | Published 08/14/2023

Question:

I have a 2015 Outback and I tow an A liner trailer. I bought and installed a Curt Echo controller, wiring for a 7 pin connector and installed new brakes on the trailer. Weve made numerous trips with this setup without incident. Ive always felt Im not getting enough out of the trailer brakes. I have the setting at 8 on the ECHO brake control . Both brakes work. I have the same voltage coming out of the controller that I have at the battery. Am I expecting too much? The tires on the trailer wont lock up. Thanks

asked by: Bill M

Expert Reply:

It sounds like your Curt Echo # C51180 is operating properly since you mentioned you are getting the same voltage out of the controller that you see on your vehicle battery. This indicates full power being sent to the trailer brakes. I recommend verifying the brakes are adjusted properly. Since you mentioned you installed new trailer brakes they may require adjustment sooner than normal since they typically wear a lot when you first bed them in to the drums. Typically you are able to get the brakes on any trailer to lock up but there are some occasions where depending on the trailer load and brake sizing they will not lock up as the force put onto the brakes exceeds their stopping capability. If this is the case you might verify you are not exceeding the weight capacity the trailer or brakes are rated for.

expert reply by: Bud M