Troubleshooting Low Voltage and Weak Trailer Brake Performance
Updated 07/26/2024 | Published 07/17/2024
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Question:
Im at a loss. I have a 2017 Ram. My trouble is I have a Hefty G/N flat bed and Ive never had good brakes on it. Ive had several rvs and no trouble with brakes on anything else, same P/U. Ive completely rewired that trailer. I can only get 6.7 volts out of the P/U which you can barely feel any braking. If I hook up a battery the brakes lock up. This is a 3 axle trailer but I tried just hooking up on axle at a time, still no luck. I dont think its a Ram issue or the brakes wouldnt work on my other trailers. The breakaway is by passed. What am I missing? Have you heard of something like this on Ram trucks?
asked by: Danny L
Expert Reply:
Hey Danny, most likely the wiring of the brake output circuit on the trailer is too thin and not able to carry all of the amperage needed to activate all of the brake assemblies. I would recommend verifying that the wire thickness is at least 10 gauge which we offer with the part # 10-1-1 sold by the foot.
If the problem is on the Ram wiring then I'd recommend doing the same and see if you can upgrade the circuits wiring to something heavier. Or it is possible the brake controller is bad and not able to put out enough amps/volts.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Autowbrake Electric Brake Controller - Trailer Mount w/ Remote Fob - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Splice-In
- Remote Control
- Trailer-Mount
- Up to 3 Axles
- LED Display
- Single Trailer Only
- Autowbrake
more information >
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Danny L.
7/25/2024
Jameson, I apologize for not getting back to you. Crazy busy. I'm sure it's not the controller, I have good brakes on other trailers. I just got back from a 600 mile trip. Very steep and sharp turns, lots of braking. I don't know if I should say it but I am getting some brake on it. I still think I'll take your advice and run #10 wire from the pickup to the trailer. Everything else on the trailer, brake wise, has been rewired with #10 wire. Thanks again. That reminder thing they sent me is a good thing.