new wiring for old trailer

[luca16]

Hi guys,

I'm a proud 1954 22' FC's owner, maybe the only one in Italy where I live I'm just testing the original electric breakes they seem to be in good working condition, not the same for the electric wires completely rotten. So I'd like to get a new ones just to be able to tow short distance with something working behind my sholder. I'm seeing the old wiring setting up on the wheels and I'm just going to re do that not so at the front end where I can find only two snipped wires . I guess to connect them through a plug to the stop light system of my car. Is it a foolish thing? Any advice about the simpliest wiring system will be appreciated

Luca

[TheGreatleys]

If I understand you correctly, you're saying that you want to connect the brake wires to the stop light wire for your car's brakes? That's not going to work. You'll lock up your trailer brakes every time you tap on the brakes. You need to wire the brakes through a brake controller that can send the correct current to apply your brakes proportionally to how hard you're braking.

[luca16]

Originally Posted by TheGreatleys

If I understand you correctly, you're saying that you want to connect the brake wires to the stop light wire for your car's brakes? That's not going to work. You'll lock up your trailer brakes every time you tap on the brakes. You need to wire the brakes through a brake controller that can send the correct current to apply your brakes proportionally to how hard you're braking.

Thanks for your clear reply, I suspected break controller's need I wonder whether it was a 50's standard because on my FC I only found a breakeway switch maybe break controller was and have to be installed on the car?
Luca

[SpletKay06]

Yes the brake controller for electric trailer brakes has to be installed on the tv. It sends a regulated voltage threw the 7 pin connector to apply the trailer brakes. Separate from the lights.

[USAtraveler]

With so little knowledge of how system works, compounded by potentially catastrophic consequences of screwing up, suggest you find a qualified trailer/RV tech to redo the wiring and hook-up to brake controller.

[kdickinson]

most hitch installers would be able to install the proper controller and break-away cable and new break-away unit (don't recommend using the existing one unless you know it is brand new and functional). For the trailer brakes themselves you may need a mechanic to check them and do any required wiring ... the cost in time and money will be well spent long term

[luca16]

Originally Posted by USAtraveler

With so little knowledge of how system works, compounded by potentially catastrophic consequences of screwing up, suggest you find a qualified trailer/RV tech to redo the wiring and hook-up to brake controller.

Yes, in this field I'm a beginner but not the only one in Italy electric breaks are just unknown it's very difficult to find out a qualified tech so I'm just interested in and with your advice I'm going on.However don't worry, FC's axle will be change for EU standard

Luca

[J. Morgan]

Anyone can learn to install a controller and trailer brake system. It is not rocket science.




Gradiens super tenui glacie.

[J. Morgan]

http://www.easternmarine.com/tech-in...iring-diagram/
.

Controller wiring;

Red to brake switch

White to ground

Black to battery through 20 amp breaker

Blue to trailer brake magnets.

The other wires from the brake magnets go to ground, if this is done, the trailer brakes are functional.

At this point a breakaway switch should be added to the functional brakes.

The breakaway switch is mounted on the tongue of the trailer with one wire hooked to the trailer battery through another 20 amp breaker, and the other wire tapped into the blue wire that runs to the brake magnets.

Done!

[J. Morgan]

Most modern controllers are activated when it receives a signal from the brake light switch when you press the brake pedal, (red wire).

(Be aware, there are two types of controllers, inertial and "time delay", you want inertial for your trailer)

"These controllers modulate the current sent to the magnets via an inertial device in the controller that will send more or less current to the MAGNETS depending on how hard you are trying to stop.

Gradiens super tenui glacie.

[luca16]

Great, J.Morgan! I'll carefully read your advice and in a few time I'm going to get my first brake control and breakaway switch. Thanks a lot

Luca

[J. Morgan]

It is my pleasure.

I forgot to note that the two circuit breakers that I mentioned above should be as close to their respective batteries as possible/practical.

You want a ZERO percent chance of a short circuit between the battery and the circuit breaker.

Gradiens super tenui glacie.