Troubleshooting Trailer Brakes That are Still Weak After Adjusting
Updated 08/30/2024 | Published 08/18/2024
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I just installed the AKEBRK-35-SA brake assemblies to my 2018 Surveyor 201RBS. However, I cant seem to get the brakes adjusted properly. I took the trailer for a drive and have applied brakes multiple times, with manual controller and with truck brakes. I can feel the brakes engaging, but even with my gain set to 10 it will only slightly slow the vehicle down, and will not lock up at all. I tried to manually adjust and I ended up adjusting too far and had to pry the drum off to reset it. I also am not getting even braking from one side to the other. I checked voltages and it is within .1-.2 volts. With brake applied about 80 I was reading around 3.8 volts. Any thoughts?
asked by: Steve S
Expert Reply:
Interesting situation you've got, Steve. Typically weak bakes are a sign that the brakes need to be adjusted, but since you've already done that, It makes me think that maybe the brake controller is not putting out enough voltage.
To check, you'll need to turn the gain all the way up then test the brake output pin on the vehicle side connector using a multimeter # PT89ZR while someone applies the manual override on full.
You should be getting 12v, but if you're not then there is an issue with your controller and would explain why you're not getting adequate braking.
I'd also suggest checking over your wiring and make sure both connectors are clean and free of rust. Also, make sure that all of your wiring is good and not damaged.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Standard Grade
- Self Adjust
- 10 x 2-1/4 Inch Drum
- 3500 lbs Axle
- 13 Inch Wheel
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- etrailer
more information >
Continue Researching
- Video: Review of Weigh Safe Built In Scale Hitch 2 Stainless Steel Balls 2 Inch Receiver - WS66ZR
- Video: etrailer Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drums Installation - 2020 K-Z Sportsmen Classic Travel Trailer
- Shop: Weigh Safe Hitch w/ Built-In Scale for 2" Hitch - 4" Drop/5" Rise - 12.5K - Aluminum
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Trailer
- Q&A: Comparing the eTrailer and Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Kits
- Q&A: Replacement Brake Assemblies, Hubs, and Bearing Kit for a Dexter 3,500 EZ Lube Axle
- Q&A: How to Add Electric Brakes to a 3,500 lb Lippert Idler Axle
- Article: Electric Trailer Brakes: How They Work & What to Buy
- Q&A: What is a #84 Spindle and How Do I Know I Have One On My Trailer?
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Article: Testing Trailer Brake Magnets for Proper Function
- Q&A: What Gauge Wire Should be Used to Wire Trailer Brakes
- Article: Trailer Brakes Not Working? Troubleshooting Guide
- Q&A: Parts Needed To Convert To Electric Brakes On 2004 Bri Mar Dump Trailer
- Article: How to Adjust Your Trailer Brakes | The Ultimate Guide
- Q&A: Instructions to Wire a Trailer for Electric Brakes
Steve S.
8/29/2024
I took some more readings and did some experiments with the system. I set the brake controller to 10 and utilized one of my old brakes to simulate that the trailer was hooked up. I was able to read 10 volts max when the brake was applied. I did some research on my 2015 Ram 1500 and apparently there is an issue with the Rams in that time period that doesn't allow the full 12 volts from the brake controller. There was some speculation that the unit allows higher voltage when your speed is sensed to be above a certain point, but obviously I couldn't test for that. I also found that my drums were worn where the magnet engages, and since then I have ordered new drums to see if that also helps. Hopefully with the new drums and the brakes set properly I will have a good braking system. Otherwise I may have to take it to a trailer company to see if they can figure it out.