Why are My Trailer Brakes Locking Up with My Brake Controller and Breakaway System?

Question:

I have a two axle trailer. When I am coming to a stop light or stop sign, one of the trailer tires locks up as soon as I start pushing on the my truck breaks. The trailer is equipped with a Bargman break away and the PRO SERIES BREAKAWAY System with charger. Why is only one wheel locking up when I slow down while pushing slightly on yhe break pedal?

asked by: Sergio R

Expert Reply:

When one of the brakes lock up on your trailer and not the other three, the issue most commonly associated with this is that that particular brake on that wheel is not adjusted properly. I recommend just making sure that the brake connection is right before the other troubleshooting suggestions outlined here.

As far as the Bargman, I think you meant to say that that is the model of brake controller you have. It is also possible that the sensitivity and braking level on that controller is so high that the brakes are activating even with the slightest touch of the pedal. For this reason, I recommend second-checking your sensitivity and brake level settings on the controller itself as the first step.

If you find that the brakes are adjusted correctly and the controller is functioning at the correct desired settings, in order to rule out an issue with your Pro Series Breakaway system like the # 50-85-315, I recommend testing the voltage on the black wire coming from the battery terminal to see if there is an appropriate charge. It is also necessary to test the brake output from the trailer brakes and the brake controller to see if that's where the problem lies. This can be done with a voltage reader like the Hook Probe Circuit Tester # PTW2993.

If you are still having issues with the trailer's brakes, feel free to let me know.

expert reply by: Bob C