Can a Short on 1 Brake Assembly Cause Issues with 3 Other Assemblies

Question:

I have a tandem axle travel trailer with electric brakes going to all four tires. If there is a short on one of the rear tires wire would that effect all the brakes? Or should the other three magnets still activate?

asked by: Nick

Expert Reply:

A short anywhere on any circuit, including electric brakes, can cause issues elsewhere on the circuit. The ground basically takes any extra electricity and gets rid of it so when there is a bad ground it can backfeed that signal and cause problems.

To ensure that the problem is on your trailer side use a circuit tester like part # PTW2992 and test the brake controller output on your 7-Way. This is the pin in the 5 o'clock position (see attached picture). Have someone sit in the cab of your tow vehicle and activate the manual override with the brake controller on the highest setting. When this is done you should see that pin light up.

If this is the case then the problem is on your trailer and you should start off by checking your grounds and wiring like you stated.

expert reply by: Jon G