Should Trailer Brakes Lock When Using Hayes Air Actuated Trailer Brake Controller

Question:

Im pulling a 25 foot tandem dual trailer with a 97 Freightliner. Ive had this controller installed for a while and just spent $4500 on parts and labor to convert from oil to grease lube system. I have been blaming lack of brakes on oil leakage into the drum area. With all new braking parts I still dont have the ability to lock anything up on loose gravel. Operating the controller by hand offers enough braking to slightly feel them grab but using the truck brakes I dont think the trailer is braking much at all. Turning the adjustment knob doesnt change much if anything.

asked by: Dennis K

Expert Reply:

Hi Dennis,

You mentioned locking the brakes, but that isn't something that would be happening with the Hayes Air Actuated Trailer Brake Controller # HA100400C when driving. You mentioned using the controller by hand allows you to feel the braking, and that would be the manual override which is when you would feel it, so it sounds right in that regard. It's also possible you aren't getting the proper voltage to the brakes so I'd take a look at the wiring connections to see if you have a nicked or damaged wire to the brakes that is preventing full power from getting to the brakes.

expert reply by: Kyle S