Troubleshooting Front Brakes Locking Up On A Tandem Axle Trailer
Question:
My 20’ Haulmark enclosed trailer had Standens electric brakes all the way around on 3500 lb axles. The right front shoes were worn out so I took it apart and all other brakes were like new. I replaced the two front ones with Dexter 3500 lb backing plate assemblies. Now the front brakes lock up and skid and the rear brakes don’t seem to be doing anything. With the trailer jacked up and the brakes in the tow vehicle applied all wheels will not spin. I replace the rear ones with Dexter assemblies so everything would be the same but it still locks up the fronts. I tried adjusting the front brakes so they’re not even close to touching and rear so that they are dragging a bit but it didn’t make any difference. What else could it be?
asked by: Martin
Expert Reply:
Having already done adjustments and replaced multiple parts, you've really ruled out potential mechanical causes here. A next step would be to look at the electrical side of things.
Specifically I would look at connection points in the wiring on the trailer to make sure all of the connections are correct and redo them. A short in the wiring to the back axle brakes could be the cause. During your thorough inspection of the wiring, look for any pinched, frayed, or damaged wires would be a good step. Repair as needed as you go along inspecting. Also make sure that the ground wires are attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Electric Trailer Brakes - 12" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 6,000 lbs
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Standard Grade
- Manual Adjust
- 12 x 2 Inch Drum
- 6000 lbs Axle
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- 16 Inch Wheel
- Dexter
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Dexter Electric Trailer Brakes - 12" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 6,000 lbs
- Video: Pollak Wiring - Trailer Connectors - PK11852 Review
- Shop: Dexter Electric Trailer Brakes - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 6K AL-KO/Hayes Axles
- Shop: Progressive Dynamics 4000 Series Mini RV Converter w/ Charge Wizard and AC/DC Distribution Panel
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Pollak Single-Pole, Round Pin Trailer Wiring Connector - Trailer End
- Shop: Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Left Hand - 6,000 lbs
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Weak Electric Trailer Brakes
- Video: Dexter Left and Right Electric Trailer Brake Kit Installation
- Shop: Mounting Bolts and Hardware for 12" Brake Assemblies
- Video: Redline Enclosed Trailer Parts - Vents - HMAV2-AVT2 Review
- Video: Redline RV Vents and Fans - Roof Vent - 9106-2756 Review
- Video: Dexter Electric Brake Assembly Review
- Q&A: How to Determine Which Replacement Brake Assemblies and Hub/Drums Are Needed
- Q&A: Recommended Replacement Brake Assembly For 3500lb Axle
- Q&A: Is There Specific Spacing Needed for New Brakes and the Hub/Drum Assembly
- Q&A: How to Measure to Confirm Compatibility of Replacement Trailer Brakes
- Shop: Redline 2-Way Pop-Up Roof Vent with Garnish for Enclosed Trailers - Steel
- Video: Command LED Bullet Clearance or Side Marker Trailer Light with Grommet Installation
- Video: Pollak Wiring PK11763 Review
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Brakes Locking Up When Backing on New Tandem Axle Trailer
- Q&A: Ventline Ventadome Trailer Roof Vent Mounting Hole Measurements
- Search Results: 7.00~15
- Search Results: am10414
- Search Results: odometer
- Search Results: equalizer
- Search Results: hub odometer
- Search Results: hub odometer
- Article: 7 Common Questions Everyone Has About Trailer Tires
- Search Results: eq37101et
on Trailer Brakes
