Can 12 Inch, 7,000 lb Electric Trailer Brake Kit Work on Vehicle With 24 Volt System

Question:

I think there is a misunderstanding. My Truck has a 24 volt system. I can change 12 volt light bulbs to 24 volts. I want to know if 24 volts will damage the braking system.

asked by: Leon E

Expert Reply:

Though I'm not quite sure what you are referring to in regards to a misunderstanding, your truck with a 24 volt system is compatible with 12 volt electric brakes, the Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Kit - 12" - Left and Right Hand Assemblies - 7,000 lbs # 23-180-181.

The power to the brakes will actually come via the brake controller, so you will need to wire your brake controller a bit differently in order to get working brakes. I have added a link below to a help article on how to do this, but essentially what you will need to do is get a 24 volt relay for the stop light signal (which you will need to obtain locally) and install it on the stop light switch wire. The article I linked below does have a diagram as well.

You will still be able to use 24 volt lights with this set up so you don't need to change them out. The Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Kit - 12" - Left and Right Hand Assemblies - 7,000 lbs # 23-180-181 does come with the mounting nuts so to install them you would just need 10 of the Brake Mounting Bolt for 12" Brake Assembly # 7-5.

expert reply by: Kyle S