Troubleshooting Common Trailer Brake Issues
by Mary LofinmakinTrailer brakes are a crucial safety component for any towing setup. When they malfunction, it can lead to dangerous situations on the road. This article will explore common trailer brake issues and provide troubleshooting tips to help you maintain your trailer's braking system effectively.
Understanding Trailer Brake Systems
Before diving into troubleshooting, it's essential to understand how trailer brakes work. Most trailers use electric brakes, which activate when the tow vehicle's brake pedal is pressed. This system relies on a brake controller in the tow vehicle to send the appropriate signal to the trailer brakes. When dealing with single trailer axle parts, the braking system is simpler but still requires proper maintenance and attention to ensure safe operation.
Common Trailer Brake Problems
- Weak or No Braking
One of the most common issues is weak or non-existent braking power. This can be caused by various factors, including worn brake shoes, a faulty brake controller, or electrical problems.
2. Intermittent Braking
If your trailer brakes work inconsistently, it could be due to loose wiring connections, a failing brake controller, or corroded brake components.
3. Locked Brakes
Sometimes, trailer wheels may lock up unexpectedly. This can be caused by over-adjusted brake shoes, a stuck brake magnet, or a malfunctioning brake controller.
4. Uneven Braking
When a trailer’s brakes operate with more intensity on one side it leads to pulling of the trailer on one side. This is often because brake shoes wear unevenly or one side’s brake is disconnected on the vehicle.
Common Trailer Brake Wiring System Problems
Even when properly maintained, there are various pitfalls one can run into concerning the wiring system occasioned by the electric brakes in operation for the trailer. Here are four troubles that may be faced by owners of trailers.
- Damaged Wiring
Extended use and rough road conditions can cause wear and tear on trailer wiring. Avoid scotch locks and ensure wires are protected within a conduit to prevent damage.
2. Corrosion
Outdoor environment especially fluctuating weather and dusty environment leads to corrosion of connector pins in the plug. Apply some WD-40 to pins and sockets, ensure that they are joined and then rejoined several times for enhanced conductivity. If you find some pins to be bent or rusted, swap them with fresh ones.
3. Low or No Voltage
Issues like open circuits, poor connections, broken wires, blown fuses, or faulty resistors can result in low voltage reaching the brake magnets. Use a voltmeter to test the controller output voltage.
4. Poor Connections
Even with advanced controllers, check all wiring connections are made properly according to the instructions. A circuit breaker kit is also useful for trailer brake installations.
Troubleshooting Steps
- Check the Electrical Connections
It is recommended to begin the safety check by examining all electrical contacts between the towing automobile and the trailer. Also, loose wires, corroded wires or wires that have been damaged in one way or the other should be sought. Ensure that lines are clean and tight as required.
2. Test the Brake Controller
Ensure your brake controller is functional. Almost all controllers are designed with an additional foot switch that will help you to test the brake apart from the brake pedal.
3. Inspect Brake Components
Daily and frequent inspections of the brake shoes, magnets and the drum of your trailer are advisable. Search for any possible marks of use and possible impacts for example staining. Most trailer kits are used to have replacement parts for some of the most used up parts and this makes it easy to conduct maintenance.
4. Adjust Brake Shoes
Properly adjusted brake shoes are crucial for effective braking. Consult your trailer's manual for the correct adjustment procedure, as it can vary between models.
5. Check for Wheel Bearing Issues
Bad trailer wheel bearings create difficulties with brakes and become a severe danger. Look for loose and/or excessive play in the wheels, listen for any strange noises.
Preventive Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to preventing brake issues. Ensure you;
- Clean and lubricate brake components regularly.
- Replace worn parts promptly.
- Adjust brake shoes as n\eeded.
- Keep electrical connections clean and tight.
- Test your brake system before each trip.
Upgrading Your Trailer Brake System
If you frequently have to solve brake problems or habitually tow big loads, it is a good idea to have your brake system upgraded. The Trailer Parts Outlet provides various types of brake assemblies to guarantee an improved braking system for your trailer, and provide safety. Explore our collection to find the best products for your needs:
- 3.5K Trailer Axle Brake Assembly: These assemblies come in both the left-hand (driver side) and right-hand (passenger side) models, specify Dexter, and are appropriate for light trailers.
- 5.2K – 6K Trailer Axle Brake Assembly: Ideal for mid-range trailers, these brake sets are available for either the driver’s side or the passenger side so there is improved or synchronized braking.
- 7K Trailer Axle Brake Assembly: These 7000 lb brake assemblies are ideal for challenging duty trailers and come with an option of either driver side or passenger side.
- 8K Trailer Axle Brake Assembly: When it comes to increased (even more) load capabilities, there are these 8000 lb capacity brakes that provide increased durability as well as performance.
- 10K Trailer Axle Brake Assembly: These brake assemblies are ideal for general-duty heavy trailers allowing for 10,000 pounds in your brake assembly.
- 12K - 16K Trailer Axle Brake Assembly: These high-capacity brake assemblies for straight identification work best for 12,000 lb to 16,000 lb trailers and offer the most effective braking potential on the heaviest loads.
Visit The Trailer Parts Outlet's brake assemblies collection to find the right brake assembly for your trailer and enjoy peace of mind on the road.
The Trailer Parts Outlet, founded in 2013, is a solution-driven parts distributor renowned for its industry savvy team members and the custom tailored solutions we provide for every customer. We embody CASS (Convenience, Access, Speed, Simplicity) offering a wide array of trailer repair parts for the hard-working trailer community. Our unparalleled speed and simplicity set us apart, ensuring swift delivery of solutions to get you back on the road. As a company, we genuinely care for our customers, creating lasting relationships and a community of doers. Choose us for quality, reliability, and excellent service steeped in our unique CASS approach.
