Troubleshooting Trailer Brakes that Have Voltage But Do Not Work

Question:

Hi my name is Doug, I have a 2006 GMC Sierra 2500HD and I tow a 2005 Cedar Creek 5th wheel. I am using a P2 Prodigy brake controller. Last year I replaced both axles on the Trailer and brand new brake assemblies. At that time I also rewired the trailer brakes with new 10 gauge wire all the way to the front of the trailer. When I press the brake petal the Prodigy is saying that it is putting out 9 to 11 volts but I have no braking power. I used a fluke meter at the brake connections and it is reading the same voltage. So why dont I have brakes? I know its reading the voltage but is there an amperage reading also to look at. Also I did adjust the brakes properly when I installed them. Any info on where to start looking for the problem would be great. Thanks

asked by: Doug N

Helpful Expert Reply:

Can you hear the assemblies hum when you use the override lever to apply voltage? Normally the magnets make a noticeable sound when activated. You can also try jacking the trailer up and spinning the wheels and then applying the brakes to see if that activates them.

Another possibility is that you have a blown grease seal and grease is inside the drum causing the brakes to not be able to activate. You'd want to pull the hub off to inspect this. Let me know what you find.

expert reply by: Jameson C