Troubleshooting Trailer Brake Controller that Won't Lock Up Trailer Brakes

Question:

I installed the P3 on my 2018 ford f150. I am pulling a 8.5x16 cargo trailer. It is currently empty3,200lbs I worked my way all the way up to 14, the max setting on the P3 and pulled the manual switch and can feel it stopping the trailer, but never got to a point where the tires screeched to a halt. My first question is if I am able to adjust the settings and can feel the brakes working did I install it correctly? My second question would be why arent the brakes stopping the trailer completely when it is empty?

asked by: Steven C

Helpful Expert Reply:

Sounds like the P3 part # 90195 was installed properly and is doing it's job to the best of it's abilities but you either have too thin of gauge wire on the brake circuit of the trailer (you need 10 gauge like part # 10-1-1 sold by foot) or you have the brakes out of adjustment and would need to tighten them up a bit.

To see how to manually adjust trailer brake assemblies check out the video I attached, fast-forward to the 4:35 mark of the video. Basically you will adjust the brakes out so that there is a slight but constant drag of the pads on the drum when the wheel is turned. I recommend using brake adjustment tool # W80630.

expert reply by: Jameson C