Why Does Surge Brake Actuator With Electric Lockout Work on One Truck But Not the Other

Question:

Just bought a new boat, the trailer has a surge brake on it. When I put the trailer in reverse the surge brake does not deactivate and my trailer brakes keep locking up. When my dad hooks his truck up to it he is able to back it up just fine. From what I read it seems like when the truck is put in reverse the surge brakes should be deactivated when the 7 Pin plug is plugged in. Ive tried to find a blown fuse or anything that might have to do with the trailer breaks but with no luck. Does anybody know what fuse or relay might have to do with this problem or is it something different altogether? I have a 2014 STX F150. Thank you

asked by: Justin W

Expert Reply:

What is happening here is that your surge brake actuator with an electric lockout uses the reverse light circuit to activate the electric lockout. So the issue is that circuit on your 2014 Ford F-150's 7-way has been somehow corrupted. Start by checking a relay in cavity 39 and a fuse in cavity 43 under the hood.

You can verify this with Circuit Tester # PTW2992, and it may be as simple as the center pin (reverse light pin) on your Ford's 7-way being corroded, so you can either clean it or replace it with the 7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket w/ Mounting Bracket - Vehicle End # HM40975 which is a direct replacement for the OEM 7-way. I also highly recommend using Dielectric Grease # 11755 to stave off any potential corrosion.

I am guessing it is as simple as your connector being corroded but it may also be a blown fuse, for which you would simply need to check your owner's manual to determine which location the fuse is. I have added links to video reviews of the connector and grease for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Kyle S