Trailer Brakes Not Working on One Side

Question:

Question 1. My driver’s side brakes stopped fully engaging one week after new magnets, magnets are coming on and are getting about 10v of power will slow down the wheels but not lock up, passenger’s side are good for the moment. Question two My trailer often burns the magnets, they don’t usually last more than 6-8 weeks

asked by: Eli H

Expert Reply:

If only one side of your trailer brakes aren't working, and the magnets are going bad, it's an issue with the wiring on the trailer or the trailer connector itself in all likelihood. A bad 7-way on the trailer side can cause shorts to happen which can lead to this issue, and corrosion or dirt may have built up. Check the plug to see if there is any type of corrosion built up that may be hampering its functionality, and if so, replace with Pollak Black Plastic, 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector - Trailer End # PK12706.

After that, inspect the power wires to the magnets and look for wires that may be pinched or otherwise damaged and fix as necessary. You'll also need to make sure the ground wires are attached to bare metal surfaces and free of any paint, dirt or corrosion. For new wire use 10 gauge # 10-1-1.

expert reply by: Kyle S