After Replacing Trailer Brakes, Worn Parts, and Brake Controller the Trailer Brakes are Weak

Question:

I have a trailer with 2- 7000lbs axels..i cant get good trailer brakes-i have replaced shoe and magnet assy.,had drums turned, and replaced controler.... before I had good brakes and something happened

asked by: Jerry G

Expert Reply:

One possibility is that you have a weak ground for the brake magnets. Check the grounds and make sure they are attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces. Do the same with the main trailer connector and vehicle side grounds.

You will need to adjust the brakes since you have replaced the old ones. I have included a link to a video that should help. At about the 4:24 mark, our installer adjusts the brakes. They should be adjusted so that they drag lightly but constantly when you spin the wheel.

Also, you may need to go back and adjust the power output of the brake controller and check to make sure it is level. If it was bumped accidentally it could have pushed it outside of its accepted mounting range.

You want the power on the controller set to an output that applies the brakes just under wheel lock up.

expert reply by: Michael H