Curt Echo Brakes Occasionally Lock on Trailer  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

Hello, I contacted the manufacturer and discussed this issue with them. They ask that you verify functionality of the trailer brakes, the low speed grab and lock up makes them think you may have an actual brake issue not a controller malfunction or settings issue.

Is there an option of comparing brake functionality with another brake controller/tow vehicle for purpose of troubleshooting? Occasionally brakes may be set too tight and be okay when first setting off but grab hard after heated. Please review the attached video, it shows steps on adjusting electric brakes but basically what you are going to do is tighten brakes while rotating the hub until they just stop. When you can not rotate the hub by hand anymore, then back it off ten clicks. You then verify how much drag remains. What you want is very slight drag from the brakes against hub. Ten clicks or so should get you in the ballpark, you might need to adjust more in or out.

In addition, they asked to ensure you are plugging the Curt Echo # C51180 into the vehicle and allowing time to sync prior to connecting to the trailer. Then start by adjusting the output settings on your controller. It is recommend that you test settings on controller by driving forward on a dry, level paved surface and apply the tow vehicle's brakes. If the trailer brakes grab hard/lock up then lower the max output. Repeat this process until stops are firm, just short of lock up. Then repeat the same process for setting the sensitivity until you are able to come to a smooth stop. In changing these settings you may need to adjust the trailers brakes as well. Please review the attached video, it shows steps on adjusting electric brakes.

expert reply by: Michael R

1