Why Would Trailer Brake Magnet Get Hot that is Parked and Not Used
Updated 02/03/2026 | Published 07/23/2024
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Question:
Hi, I own a 2016 Keystone bullet with 10inch Dexter brake assembly 023-027-00, 023-026-00 . While doing maintenance on my wheels i noticed that the magnet was so hot, that i could barely touch it. The trailer is parked, has been so for weeks and not connected to my truck, only land electrical wire is plugged in the house to have the fridge running. What to do ? if i change all four Brake assembly would this fix the problem ? What causes this ? Help !!! Thank you ! Chris
asked by: Christian Y
Expert Reply:
That is really odd! Especially if its only one brake magnet. I would assume that there is a short from the camper battery positive wire circuit to the brake output but even that should affect all of the brake magnets. I would start by testing to see if the wires that run to the brake magnet have voltage on them with a circuit tester like the part # PTW2993 and go from there.
I would suspect that there is a short between a battery charge circuit and the assemblies.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Replacement Trailer Brake Magnet Kit for Dexter and Hayes / AL-KO 10" Trailer Brakes
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Brake Magnets
- 10 x 2-1/4 Inch
- Dexter
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Jameson C.
2/3/2026
Hey Chris, what did you find when you tested the brake magnet wires with the circuit tester? Once you checked for voltage, were you able to track down where the short was coming from? Your update could really help others who run into the same issue.