Troubleshooting Weak Trailer Brakes on New Car Hauler

Question:

Hello bought a new car trailer took it on one tripe 1200 miles when I went home brakes were week even on 10 gain .took off all four tires ,cleaned drummed and magnets greased and lubricated proper parts on the braking system .Adjusted all 4 drums and still very week trailer braking ,checked grounds and wiring ,I can see one or two magnets not working but all 4

asked by: Steve

Helpful Expert Reply:

The first thing I recommend doing is using a circuit tester like # PTW2992 to test the brake output voltage at the 7-Way connector on your tow vehicle. You will want to test the pin at the 5 o'clock position while you have somebody activate the manual override on the brake controller (with it at its highest setting).

If you aren't getting 12V at the connector then the issue is actually somewhere on the tow vehicle, either with the wiring or the brake controller itself. If you get proper voltage then you at least know the problem is somewhere on the trailer.

If you find that the issue is on the tow vehicle start by simply inspecting the 7-Way connector for any debris or corrosion around the pins that needs to be cleaned out. Then work your way up to brake controller, tracing the brake output wiring as much as you can and looking for any pinched, frayed, or damaged sections that need to be repaired/replace. Make sure all the wiring connections for the brake controller are secure.

If the problem is on the trailer you will want to first inspect its 7-Way, again checking for debris/corrosion that needs to be removed. Then try and trace the brake output wire from the 7-Way as far back as you can to the brake assemblies, looking for damaged areas where power could be interrupted. Since you already checked the grounds for the brakes and made sure they were properly adjusted, I recommend making sure the magnets for each assembly are in good condition.

Visually inspect the magnets first by looking for any windings that are beginning to show through the surface, indicating that a replacement is in order. I have also attached a great article that explains how you can test the magnets for proper function.

I have included a link that will take you to our selection of replacement brake magnets if needed.

If you are still unable to locate or resolve the issue please let me know and we can continue to troubleshoot.