testing the elec brakes?

Rog0525 · 06-10-2002, 02:01 PM

I have tested and repaired all the elec apparatus in my '60 Overlander but I do not have a tow vehicle and cannot test the elec brakes. Is there a method to test the brakes without taking it to an RV garage? I am fixing this ol gal up for resale but want to be sure that everything is safe and functional while keepin my cost to a minimum. I would not sell a vehicle of this sort with known safety flaws.

FrankR · 06-10-2002, 11:15 PM

To check electric brakes, some temporary supplies are required. Aside from just dragging the trailer down the road, static testing will check for braking action. To do a test, a battery must be placed at the tongue of the trailer, a 30 amp ampmeter, a 12volt dc test lite, and a couple number 12 gage test wires with aligator clips. The easy test...connect battery negative post to good frame ground or to trailer battery ground. Connect amp meter to trailer electric brake wire. Observe meter while making connection and note amps,.... should be about 15 amps. If amp reading is very low, one or more brake magnet coils are not working. To be assured all brakes are getting 12volts dc, use test lite at each wheel. Disconnect jumper from battery and remove meter. With a sngle wheel jacked off ground, have helper spin wheel and observe wheel stopping as power is applied to brake control wire..... Or just hook up to tow vehicle with correct brake controller......

Rog0525 · 06-11-2002, 02:14 PM

I printed out your your advice and will give it a try. I'm learning a lot from these forums and the helpful advice is much appreciated.

53flyingcloud · 06-11-2002, 04:02 PM

I agree with everything FrankR says, no question abt it~!!
If I may say this, since it's an elec. system, why not connect the terminal to the battery thru a sw while standing by the wheels and, feel each one as you turn it on and off?? That would save a short drive if all you wanted to know if it's active on each wheel. Of course, this is a subject that's most often overlooked along with wheel bearings and, needs at least a bi-annual or 6000k tops check out. Great to run into you again FrankR~
ciao