Troubleshooting Trailer Brakes That Are Not Working

Question:

I have a new Ford Expedition with integrated brake control and the trailer brakes do not work. The lights are fine. I thought it might be the Ford, as there have been some problems with them, but I tried a friends trailer and the electric brakes worked fine. I have tried cleaning the 7 pin connector on the harness, especially the brake and ground connections. I have used sand paper on a screwdriver blade and sprayed electronics cleaner, all to no avail. The brakes were working last fall on our Toyota but no longer work with that either. Clearly a trailer problem. While it may be the magnets I think it is the connections. What is the best way to get a good surface clean on the harness connections? Thanks

asked by: Mark O

Expert Reply:

Since you have already tried extensively cleaning your trailer connector with sandpaper and electronics cleaner to no avail, it sounds like it may just be damaged and need replacing. You can cut off your trailer connector and replace it with the Hopkins 7-Way RV Style Connector # H20046; I also strongly recommend using Dielectric Grease # 11755 which is going to prevent corrosion and seal your connection.

Additionally, make sure to inspect the power wires to the magnets and look for wires that may be pinched or otherwise damaged and fix as necessary. You'll also need to make sure the ground wires are attached to bare metal surfaces and free of any paint, dirt or corrosion.

expert reply by: Kyle S