Troubleshooting Trailer Brakes that Surge at Slow Speeds with a Tekonsha Brake Controller

Published 10/22/2014

Question:

I have a 2006 Thor trailblazer 23 ft travel trailer with electric brakes pulled by a 2007 GMC truck with a Tekonsha controller. Brakes are find except at low speed braking with both truck and truer seems to lurch or buck while stopping - not smooth. Help.

asked by: Larry L

Expert Reply:

Since you said you have a Tekonsha brake controller that would indicate that you have a proportional brake controller. I would verify that you have it set up properly and that the controller is leveled properly and pointing the right direction.

The Tekonsha controllers all have different level ranges that they can function on, but basically you want to make sure the controller is totally parallel with the direction of travel, is level from side to side and as close to level from front to back as you can get it.

If that doesn't work try lowering the gain or boost setting on the controller. This will lower the initial braking power that the controller will deliver when you depress the brake pedal.

I attached an FAQ article on brake controller troubleshooting for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C