Testing Trailer Brake Controller and Trailer Brakes Assemblies

Question:

I wired my 2 axle trailer brakes and have power to the magnethowever when I tested the system the brakes are not working.I then took a brand new brake setup and tested it right off the 7 pin receiver on the back of my truck.The brakes still did not move even with key in ignition turned on to activate the brake controller. Also, with brake depressed I get power to my right and left turn signal only is this correct?

asked by: Denis C

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are a couple of things to note. The trailer brakes will only work when the brake controller is on and active. It will put power through to the 5 o'clock pin on your 7-way. If it is a proportional controller it will only give you that extra power when moving unless you hit the manual override on the controller.

When you hit the brake pedal, the brake lights on either side should illuminate, but with a proportional brake controller you won't have any deceleration to detect so no additional braking is required until movement causes the need.

The brake magnets will not move unless the manual override is hit and the brake drums are in position to cause the magnetic pull.

I've attached some articles to help further.

expert reply by: Jason S