Should An Integrated Brake Controller Cause Trailer Brakes To Completely Lock Up?

Published 10/08/2024

Question:

When towing my travel trailer the integrated brake controller won’t lock the trailer brakes up. When I use the controller slide, set to 10, it applies the brakes a good amount but no tire skidding. I have a 2016 F150. Is it possible it’s designed to not allow the trailer brakes to completely lock up? Thanks

asked by: William B

Expert Reply:

Hello William, thanks for reaching out. The integrated brake controller should not cause the brakes to lock up completely, even on the highest setting. The braking should be strong and aggressive, but the brakes should not fully lock. This is for safety reasons as locked brakes can lead to loss of control of the trailer.

You can always try adjusting your brake shoes out a bit to up the braking power, but again you do not want to adjust them to the point where the brakes lock up. The ideal brake adjustment is where you can turn the hub easily by hand but it does not spin freely.

expert reply by: Jesse M