Breakaway switch.

[Fyrzowt]

Originally Posted by Marshall

Locking up Brakes on my 73 Sovereign (original brakes)

1. I have never tried pulling the pin. How locked up is the break away switch designed to effect? Should it lock up the brakes into a skid at speed?

2. I can feel when my trailer brakes engage when towing as a tug and a drag on the tow vehicle but I have made a few panic stops and the trailer brakes do not lock into a skid. I have checked the brake pads and they are OK. Are my trailer brakes functioning correctly?

I tried to lock up my 25' Safari a few times at about 25 MPH unsuccessfully. IMO both of your trailers are to heavy to lock them up. Having said that, I have never pulled the breakaway pin to attempt this.
Dave

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by Fyrzowt

I tried to lock up my 25' Safari a few times at about 25 MPH unsuccessfully. IMO both of your trailers are to heavy to lock them up. Having said that, I have never pulled the breakaway pin to attempt this.
Dave

"IF" the following are true, the brakes will lock up.

1. The brakes have been properly adjusted, as they do wear in time.

2. The controller is putting out 12 volts DC or more.

3. The wiring on the tow vehicle is correct (wire size etc).

4. Aircraft type terminal connectors are used.

5. The trailer wiring is OK.

Both 10 inch and 12 inch electric brakes, when "properly adjusted", will lock up at 8 volts DC, at the magnet.

Best way to check is connect a DC voltmeter to the wires at one of the brake backing plate assemblies. No need to take a hub and drum off.

Have someone apply full brakes from your controller, with the engine running.

If you read less than 8 volts DC, there is a wiring problem.

If you read more than 8 volts DC, then the brakes are not adjusted properly.

You should read at least 11.5 volts DC, if the controller is putting out 12 volts DC, or more.

The above will take care of about 99 percent of the lack of adequate braking problems.

Andy

[Fyrzowt]

Thanks Andy, I'll check. It's always nice to have a professional opinion around here.
Dave

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by Fyrzowt

Thanks Andy, I'll check. It's always nice to have a professional opinion around here.
Dave

Please let us know your test results.

Andy

[enduroryda]

Fryzowt....I'm no professional but I have felt and heard the brakes on my 21' lock up. Are you sure your brake controller is set up correctly? When we were experimenting with the set up of the controller we were in a large parking lot testing it out and it was locking up my wheels until we backed it off a bit.

Andy..Thanks for the advice & expertise....your always so helpful!