Troubleshooting Electric Trailer Brakes Not Engaging

Question:

I have 12.2 volts coming out of 7 way and when plugged in I have 9.6 volts still not locking up

asked by: Joshua M

Expert Reply:

If you have voltage coming out of your 7-way but the trailer brakes are not engaging, the issue is going to be on the trailer side wiring or possibly the brake magnets themselves. 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. A weak ground can mean not enough amperage is being applied to the brake magnets.

You'll also want to visually inspect the magnets; if you can see the copper windings coming through the magnets will need to be replaced. To test the magnets use Multimeter # PT89ZR and follow the help article I have linked to guide you.

expert reply by: Kyle S