Troubleshooting New Trailer Brakes That Seem Weak

Question:

I have a P2 brake controller and installed in on my SUbaru Forester 2013. All seems well, I have a trailer simulator, all the lights are good. I also paid someone 400 to check it out at camping world. They say everything is okay. However, I have had these before and I have a very light trailer. I do what I have done int he past and get it up to 25 miles an hour and use the manual switch to test the settings on the brake controller. I get resistance from the brakes, but even at the highest setting and boost the trailer wheels do not lock up. The trailer is brand new, and it was checked out as well. So I dont know what else to do, but it doesnt seem to be right. suggestions?

asked by: Don D

Expert Reply:

Since you said the trailer is brand new that leads me to believe that your brake assemblies are self-adjusting assemblies that just haven't been activated enough times for them to find the right setting and work properly.

What you will want to do is keep repeating the testing process you have done until you feel the brakes start grabbing hard enough to lock the brakes up. They should progressively get strong and stronger with each application of the manual override lever.

Or, if the brake assemblies are manual adjust assemblies you will want to check to make sure they are adjusted properly. With the trailer jacked up you should feel the brakes drag slightly when you turn the wheel by hand. Check the 4:25 mark of the video I attached for more info on this.

Ideally you don't want the trailer brakes to lock up. Right before lockup is the most effective braking strength for setting max brake power.

expert reply by: Jameson C