Electric brakes on camper trailer

Submitted: Sunday, Dec 02, 2012 at 23:01
ThreadID: 99310 Views:3706 Replies:4 FollowUps:3
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I have a 2006 Trackabout Safari with electric brakes that I purchased second hand 12 months ago. I have installed a Tekonsha Prodigy brake controller in my Hilux. When I apply the brakes in my vehicle, power goes to both sides of the trailer, but only one side experiences full braking. Anyone have any suggestions?
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Reply By: The Bantam - Sunday, Dec 02, 2012 at 23:49

Sunday, Dec 02, 2012 at 23:49
Have the wiring checked, make sure large enough wire has been used, check the condition and adjustment of the brake mechanisms.

If the trailer has been used off road and perhaps in mud, water or sand...all these things can mess with the brakes.

Remember too trailers of all types are very rarely assembled with a great deal of care.....and this becomes obvious several years down the track.

When a little grease, an extra washer, a nyloc or just a little more carenut may have saved a problem.

cheers
AnswerID: 499699

Reply By: Lex M - Monday, Dec 03, 2012 at 00:12

Monday, Dec 03, 2012 at 00:12
Suggest you measure the current going to each side. A DC clampmeter is ideal ,otherwise break each circuit and measure it with a multimeter.

If the currents are markedly different then you have an electrical problem.
If they're similar you have a mechanical problem.
AnswerID: 499702

Follow Up By: Member - Toyocrusa (NSW) - Monday, Dec 03, 2012 at 06:33

Monday, Dec 03, 2012 at 06:33
Or an electric magnet problem. Have seen them get an open circuit or wires break where it enters the magnet body in the past. Bob.
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FollowupID: 775664

Follow Up By: GEMAC Solar and Power - Monday, Dec 03, 2012 at 08:51

Monday, Dec 03, 2012 at 08:51
Hi

The brake controller will put out proportional voltage dependent on the stopping motion and having the brakes on.
If the wireing was too small then both sides would be affected.
In reality you will require a wire from the controller to the brakes to be about 3-4 mm in dia. Else you will experience both voltage drop and this will in turn affect the braking performance.
lower voltage means less current available at the braking solenoids.
The other problem may be the brake adjustment.
Maybe just lift the trailer and remove the wheels and hubs and see what may be wrong.
Ig you are unsure what to look for check both side and see if there is any differences in movement, wear, bits not seeming to be in the right place etc.
Electric brakes are very simple in their operation, An arm with a cam to push the brake shoes out. the arm has a solenoid magnet attached and this will be attracted to the brake drum. The solenoid will rub/hold the drum so have a look at the surface for wear/oil etc.

Good Luck

Geoff
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FollowupID: 775674

Follow Up By: Tass - Wednesday, Dec 05, 2012 at 22:15

Wednesday, Dec 05, 2012 at 22:15
Lex,
thanks for your no nonsense suggestion-will get hold of a clampmeter and follow your logic.
Last time I had the drums off doing some routine maintenance the magnet on the suss side looked a bit suss, so I think that may be my issue.
Appreciate everyones feedback!
Tass
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FollowupID: 775863

Reply By: MEMBER - Darian, SA - Monday, Dec 03, 2012 at 09:00

Monday, Dec 03, 2012 at 09:00
Normal procedure for such issues (in my view) is: 1. If you know that the bearings and brakes are all in good order, you check the electrics, then adjust the brake shoes from outside the hub. 2. If you don't know the state of the bearings and brakes, you need to get it all off and do a proper service. Even if shoe adjustment is ok, worn and/or greasy* shoe linings can produce dodgy braking.
*A leaking rear seal can let grease onto the shoes, if the bearings have been over-greased.
AnswerID: 499710

Reply By: wozzie (WA) - Saturday, Dec 08, 2012 at 03:12

Saturday, Dec 08, 2012 at 03:12
Had/occasionally still have a similar problem on a Jayco Dove outback.

When I had the brakes and bearings checked, all A Ok

Found the problem, it was a loose wire connection at the plug and socket end.

The wires vibrate loose over time and conditions.

An Auto Sparky in Sale Vic, suggested I went to one of the larger plug/socket sets, same as used for trucks.

Have'nt done that yet and consequently still have the problem occassionally, would'nt hurt to check your connections.

Cheers

Tony
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AnswerID: 499998

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