Checking Electric Brakes For Proper Voltage in System

Question

Question:

how many volts should i have at the brakes when i the controller in the truck is at max power? not sure if i have a brake problem or a controller problem?

asked by: Howard

0

Expert Reply:

The voltage at the black wire running into your controller should be at 12-13 Volts when checked with a multimeter like # PT89ZR. When checked at the 5 o'clock pin on your 7-way with the manual override lever engaged and with the controller set to max output it should read 12 Volts. At your brake magnets, it should read 11-12 Volts. If it is less then you will need to check your ground connections to ensure bare metal to metal connection and also check your brake magnet power wire. If it has insulation missing, is pinched or crimped, then replace with # 10-1-1 sold by the foot. Finally, check your brake magnets. I've attached an article.

expert reply by: Jason S

0

Answer 1

Since you just installed the #AKEBRK-35-SA on your trailer and are experiencing this issue, the most likely cause is just a weak ground wire on the right side. I recommend checking the wiring on the side that is providing weak braking (the right side…

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Answer 2

A trailer brake assembly magnet is going to lightly touch the armature surface of the brake drum even when the brakes aren't applied. They basically glide along the smooth surface until you apply the trailer brakes which magnetizes them and then…

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Answer 3

Those are Warner trailer brakes. This style is not made anymore and replacement parts are hard to find. We have some parts for the larger Warner assemblies but NOT the 12 x 2 inch ones. Most people end up replacing them. You will have to have…

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Answer 4

Due to the age of the trailer, we will want a little more information to make sure we get you the correct hub and drum assembly and brake assemblies. The best way to choose a replacement hub is by using the bearing and grease seal part numbers that…

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Answer 5

Since the trailer was off of the ground it would not take much voltage to stop the wheels from spinning so they may be getting power but they may not be getting enough power due to a short or wiring issue. But 9 times out of 10 weak trailer brakes…

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Answer 6

If you are getting 13.8 volts at the magnets then that is more than enough. Maybe too much like there is a short somewhere. I recommend testing the brake magnets. First you can inspect the magnets and if you can see the copper windings coming through…

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Answer 7

It sounds like you either have bad grounds for the brake assemblies or you are using too small of gauge for the brake assemblies themselves. The brake output circuit should be 10 gauge wire like the part #10-1-1 which is sold by the foot. Make sure…

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Answer 8

The Dexter 10K electric brakes #23-439 (right side) and #23-438 (left side) will have to be manually adjusted using the adjustment wheel below the magnet. To adjust the brakes you will use a small screwdriver or similar tool to turn the adjustment…

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Answer 9

It sounds like there is an electrical short on your trailer wiring that is activating your left rear brake assembly and that is why the brake continues to drag and get hot. Since you have swapped the brake assembly out and still had the problem you…

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Answer 10

Pull the hub off on the problem wheel. I bet your brake assembly has a mechanical problem and just needs to be replaced. For a replacement Dexter brake assembly for the right hand side of a 10k Dexter axle you would want the part #23-451.

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Answer 11

Most brakes also require a (break-in) period. Dexter says to get up to about 20-30 mph and use the manual override several times. They may also feel weak breaking because it is recommended to let the brakes (seat) into the hub for the first 200 miles…

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Answer 12

Something is obviously causing a voltage drop between the brake controller and the trailer connector. The usual culprit in this type of situation is a break in the wire or a corroded wire. Check the wiring under the truck. You should be able to trace…

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