Why are My Brakes Performing Poorly

Question:

I have a 2007 Hitchhiker 32.5 FKSBG 5th wheel and the brakes have never been what I consider good. I tow it with a 2007 Dodge 3500. I installed a Prodigy P3 and have it set on B3 with the voltage turned all the way up to 12.8. I sent the controller back to get checked and they said it was fine but Dodge trucks had problems with voltage loss from too many connectors between the front and back. I added a #12 wire direct from the controller to the trailer plug with good splices. I found wire connections on the trailer that look like they were done by a 3rd grader and repaired them all but the braking is still just marginal. The brakes are 10 x 2 and the tires are LT235-85-R16E. Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks

asked by: Mike M

Expert Reply:

To improve the braking of your 2007 Hitchhiker 32.5 FKSBG fifth wheel trailer there a couple things you should check. It sounds like the problem is most likely in your trailer.

I would take apart you brake assemblies to see if there are worn internal components. Your brakes may be out of adjustment, or maybe the pads or magnets are worn out. I attached a video on brake assembly removal and inspection.

I would recommend you use 10 gauge wire, part # 10-1-1, on your truck and trailer to supply the power to your trailer brake circuit instead of the 12 gauge wire.

Since you said the wiring was questionable I would go out and connect your truck to your trailer and with your key on I would have a friend apply the brake while you go around to each brake hub and listen to make sure that every brake assembly is activating. If some are not activating I would check the wiring and look for any loose wires or corrosion and fix as necessary.

You should also check to make sure that you are not hauling too much weight for the weight capacities of your trailer. If you are hauling over the weight limit of your trailer the braking system will not be able to stop the trailer effectively. To check the axle capacities of your trailer you should look at the frame of your trailer near the coupler for a plate that has the VIN numbers printed on it. There will also be the capacities of your axles listed there.

If you know the bolt pattern of the mounting flange on the back of your brake assembly you might be able to upgrade to a larger brake assembly.

expert reply by: Jameson C