What Gauge Wire Should be Used to Wire Up Trailer Brake Assemblies

Question:

I have a suggestion for you. Instead of saying left or right side for your assemblies, call it curb or passenger side. The other, street inch or driver. The reason for this is your customer does not know if you are standing in front of the trailer looking at it or standing at the rear looking at it. I have installed the brakes and adjusted them until I got a slight drag when turning the tire. But, they are very weak compared to my old ones. The only thing I can think that would cause this is the 16 gauge wire that is on the trailer. Since the electromagnets are heavier made, I think I will need to go to 12 gauge wire. Does this make sense? Have you dealt with weak brakes before and was this this fix?

asked by: Jim W

Helpful Expert Reply:

I would strongly recommend going with heavier wire for the brake output circuit to your assemblies. 16 gauge is way too thin. I would recommend a 10 gauge wire like the part # 10-1-1 that is sold by the foot.

I admit the designation for left or right hand assemblies is a bit confusing. But if you can remember that the actuating arm that holds the brake magnet should always be in front of the spindle then you can easily determine which side assembly you have.

expert reply by: Jameson C