Brake Problems

[bertheep]

Hi...
I have a 2005 Safari and a 2007 Silverado with an Integrated Brake Control.
When I first bought the truck I hooked it up and had no problems with the brakes. It was great to be able to adjust the gain easily. One day, all of a sudden I was not getting any indication on my brake control that I had brakes. So, I did the following...

1 Checked the fuse on the truck...actually replaced it just to be sure.

2. Checked to make sure the 7 pin plug was in tightly. All lights and turn signals work, but no brakes.

I have no idea what could be wrong. Any ideas or suggestions as to what I should check out.

Also...is it an absolute no/no to drive with our the trailer brakes working?

Thanks,
Bert

[DKB_SATX]

Check with a meter to make sure you have continuity through the brake circuit on the trailer side. You can also do a basic test of the trailer's brakes by pulling the breakaway cable (with a charged battery in the trailer of course) and checking with a compass at each wheel to make sure the magnets are energized. Be sure to put the breakaway insert back into the switch when you're done with your check.

If you have an open circuit at the brakes I don't think the controller will "know" there's a trailer plugged in.

[ventport]

There may be a fuse inside the trailer also, look in the owners manual to check that out.

[bertheep]

Thanks for the idea about the breakaway cable. I will check it out.

Briefly...how would I check continuity? I have a hand held volt meter.

[bertheep]

Thanks...I will check on a possible fuse in the trailer.

[DKB_SATX]

Originally Posted by bertheep

Thanks for the idea about the breakaway cable. I will check it out.

Briefly...how would I check continuity? I have a hand held volt meter.

Your meter may have a setting for continuity (my Fluke on that setting will beep when there is a circuit) or you may just have to measure resistance and look for a smallish value.)

Measure between the brake and ground ports on the umbilical.

[pappy19]

I would take it to any RV dealer where you live and have them do a check. Chances are, they have seen every kind of trailer brake control problem especially an electrical issue. That's what I would do.