What Makes 5th Wheel Trailer Feel Like Brakes are Jerking

Question:

I have a 5th wheel camper that feels to me like brakes are going on and off causing jerking of trailer like brakes are going on and off

asked by: DUWAYNE M

Expert Reply:

My best guess to your issue with the brakes going in and out, causing a jerking feeling on the trailer is related to the trailer brake controller. We commonly see this issue when using timed delay trailer brake controllers as there is a delay from when you press the pedal to when the brakes are actually applied which can mimic a jerking feeling. Therefore, it might be a good idea to upgrade to the proportional style for which I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller part # 90195.

If you already have a proportional style trailer brake controller, it's possible that the controller is set too high causing the brakes to grab creating a jerking feeling. If you think this might be the case then it's best to just start over and go through the setup procedure provided in the manual for your brake controller.

I don't suspect a wiring issue based on what you described but it's still possible so it might be worthwhile to look over all the wiring on the trailer.

expert reply by: Conner L