One of Four Trailer Brakes Wont Release when Plugged Into a 2005 Chevy Silverado
Question:
I have a brake on trailer that wont release completely when plugged into my pickup. Tandem axle brakes on both axle. Lite on.brake controller stays lit sensitivity turned down low
asked by: Mark
Expert Reply:
It sounds like there is a short somewhere that is causing constant power draw. There are a few common places to start looking. Corrosion in or on the vehicle and trailer side connectors could potentially cause this issue but normally you would see more than one brake stuck. Still it is worth cleaning away any corrosion.
On the trailer side make sure all the wiring to and from the brake magnets is in good shape with no pinched or damaged wires. Fix any damaged wires as needed. If the trailer has a breakaway system be sure to check its wiring as well. Also make sure that the pin in the switch is fully inserted and that the battery has the proper charge.
You can visually inspect the brake magnets too. If you see the copper windings coming through then the magnets will need to be replaced. To further test the magnets you can follow the help article I have linked for you.
You can also check to see if the brake controller or wiring from it is causing the problem. If you have the power turned up all the way on the controller you should be getting around 12 volts at the back of the truck. A high spike in the voltage would indicate a short somewhere between the brake controller and the vehicle side trailer connector that you will need to track down and fix.
To further test the controller you can follow the testing and troubleshooting brake controller help articles I have linked for you. If you need a multimeter you can use # PT89ZR.
Products Referenced in This Question
Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display
- Electrical Tools
- Testers
- Multimeter
- Yellow
- Performance Tool
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Product Page this Question was Asked From
Pollak Replacement 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector Socket - Vehicle End
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Vehicle End Connector
- Plug Only
- 7 Round - Blade
- Pollak
more information >
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