Troubleshooting Horse Trailer Brakes that Lock Up

Updated 07/09/2014 | Published 07/08/2014

Question:

I have a calico horse trailer 2005 ,I pull with my 2006 F 150 pickup truck over the years Ive noticed the brakes lock up on the trailer when I apply my brakes in the truck can you help me with this problem? Ive had the wiring checked Ive had the brakes looked at the magnets looked at and everything seems to be fine. I was told my trailer needs to be adjusted the brakes everytime i hawe my horse regular towing a 2.8 with the horse at 3.8. Is this really what I need to do every time? Thank you

asked by: Stephanie

Expert Reply:

Sounds like your brake controller is not setup properly for your trailer. Without knowing what brake controller you have it's hard to say exactly what would be the recommended setup procedure so instead I will give you generic setup instructions. And yes, every time the weight of your trailer changes you will need to re-setup the brakes so that the braking power is correct. Otherwise you will end up with brakes that lock or or don't function at all.

As an initial adjustment, slide the manual brake switch on the controller fully to the left and set the power adjustment wheel so that it is right in the middle. Then, drive tow vehicle and trailer around on a dry and level paved surface at around 25 mph and fully apply the manual brake switch on controller. If the trailer brakes lock up, gradually reduce the power level. If braking is not strong enough, increase the power. Ideally, you will want the power set so that the brakes have maximum braking power without locking the wheels up.

I attached a couple FAQs on brake controllers for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C