Troubleshooting Electric Trailer Brakes Not Registering With the Brake Controller

Question:

I have a 2011 Chevy 3500 dually towing a ranch King 40foot flat. The truck will sometimes register the trailer brakes when plugged in the 7 way. Other times and more recently it will be connected and show flat dash lines for the gain and will not register the trailer. I just re wired the trailer brakes due to the wires pulling out of the brake connectors under the trailer and everything worked well with no issues. I cant get the truck to consistently register the brakes and wanted to ask if you knew what may cause this issue. Thank you.

asked by: Jeff T

Expert Reply:

I can help you troubleshoot your brake controller error.

Sounds like a grounding issue to the brake magnet ground. I would make sure that the ground wire is secured tightly to a clean surface on the frame. If the wire is attached to the body or a surface with an undercoating or rust it can cause a ground problem. I recommend cleaning the area or finding a better grounding spot for the wire. Another option would be to run all the grounds to the front of the trailer where the main ground is located.

If that doesn't work then it may be a corrosion issue with the plug. I would check both plugs to see if they are making a good connection, you can try to clean them but replacing them is usually the best option. I recommend the 7 way trailer connector # A7WCB and a 7 way vehicle connector # HM48480 for replacements.

If you continue to have problems, please let me know, I'd be more than happy to troubleshoot further with you.

expert reply by: Jackie C