Installed New Trailer Brakes and Now Only One Side Locks Up

Question:

I have a 2016 ram 3500 with factory controller and a 40foot tow hauler, 3 axle. I just installed new drums, bearing and backing plates. when jacked up the left side will lock the wheels when rolling them forward but the right side wont. the right side will lock if i roll the wheel backwards first then forward. voltage test shows 4.8 volt on the left side and 4.6 volt on the right, max setting. The brakes worked before I did the replacement. I have tried to hooking up to a 05 ram and did get more voltage to the wheels but wont lock up yet. what should the output of the pick-up be on max setting and what should I have at the wheels?

asked by: David D

Expert Reply:

Since you just replaced all those components I am going to recommend that you adjust and break in your brakes first. I have linked an article below that will help you through the entire process. If the brakes are out of adjustment this could be why you are experiencing such low voltage.

You should see 11+ volts on maximum setting with your Multimeter # PT89ZR when the brakes are properly adjusted and broken in. If you have a Proportional Brake Controller these may not send full power to the brakes without seeing the inertia required to boost the braking force.

expert reply by: Bud M