Intermediate Operation of Electric Trailer Brakes  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Sounds like you will need to check a few this to figure out your trailer brake issue. The first thing you need to check is if you have correctly set you brake controller to the proper setting for towing your trailer. Make sure to consult your brake controllers owner's manual for the proper settings.

If you control has the correct braking settings, then you will need to check the brake signal coming out of the brake controller. The voltage leaving the brake controller should be 11-volts or more. You can use the a tester, like # PT89ZR to help find the voltage output. Use the tester at the 7-way connecter on your towing vehicle and check that brake controller output at the pin. On the 7-way looking at the connector, the blue wire and brake pin is located a the 5 o'clock position. If you have a reading of 11 volts or more when the controller is activated, then the problem will most likely be on the trailer, like a bad ground or a wire short. Also, make sure the 7-way is cleaned of dirt or moister that could cause issues with your brakes. If clean be sure to use a dielectric grease, # LT37534, to prevent moister contamination and prevents electrical shorts.

If the voltage is less than 11-volts then the issue is most likely on your tow vehicle. you will need to check the blue wire coming out of the back of the brake controller. To do this, you will need to measure about 6 inches on the blue wire from the control and cut the wire. Use your volt meter tester on this wire coming out of the controller. If the voltage is less than 11-volts, the controller is bad and needs to be replaced. If the controller tests good, then you will need to check that brake control wiring(BLUE Wire) going back to the 7-way connecter for any damage that could be causing the voltage issue.

I have included some help articles that will go into more explanation on how to test for intermediate brake functions for you to review.

expert reply by: Jared P

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