Troubleshooting 2016 Ram Factory Brake Controller Not Recognizing Restored Trailer
Question:
Im restoring a 72 airstream, put two new axles on it, and rewired the trailer brakes per the 7 pin diagrams found on this website. For some reason my 2016 Ram 1500 factory brake controller doesnt recognize the trailer... confounding me. All the lights work just fine, but Im having trouble with where to start. I hooked a friends trailer up to my truck, and it worked fine, so I believe the truck side works as advertised. Where should I start troubleshooting on the trailer? Thank you!
asked by: Brust R
Expert Reply:
Since the integrated brake controller on your 2016 Ram 1500 worked fine on a different trailer, the issue definitely appears to be somewhere on your restored 1972 Airstream.
I first recommend checking the 7-Way on the trailer to make sure there isn't any built-up dirt or corrosion behind the pins, cleaning out as needed. Then you will just need to check the newly installed wiring to make sure there aren't any pinched or exposed areas that might be causing a short. Also check to make sure all your ground connections are secured to clean, bare metal surfaces free of any debris or corrosion.
If the wiring all looks good, then you will want to turn your attention to the brake assemblies themselves on the trailer. Make sure the ground and power wires from each assembly are connected properly. You can also test the magnets to make sure they are working properly. I have attached an article that explains how to do this that you might find helpful.
If you still cannot locate and resolve the issue, please let me know and we can continue to troubleshoot.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display
- Electrical Tools
- Testers
- Multimeter
- Yellow
- Performance Tool
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Testing Trailer Brake Magnets for Proper Function
- Q&A: Electric Trailer Brakes not Working
- Q&A: Does The Progressive Dynamics PD4655V Have A Lithium Jumper
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Should Electric Trailer Brakes Have Continuity Between The Two Wires?
- Q&A: Can An A-Frame Trailer Jack Be Wired To The 7-Pole Cable
- Q&A: How to Wire a Trailer with Electric Brakes
- Q&A: Difference Between Dexter Axle Grease Seals 010-036-00 and 010-054-00
- Q&A: Replacement Leg For Gen 2 MORryde StepAbove RV Steps
- Article: Troubleshooting Brake Controller Installations
- Article: Testing Brake Controls
- Article: 30-Amp and 50-Amp RV Service: What's the Difference?
- Article: How to Charge a Trailer Battery While Driving: 3 Common Problems (And How to Fix Them)
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch