Forum Discussion

wannavolunteerF's avatar
Oct 14, 2016

brake or wiring issues

I have an issue with my brakes on Jayco TT or either in wiring. My truck (2010 F150) gives a trailer wiring error when I plug in. I have cleaned connections and used dielectric grease, no help. I tried plugging in new trailer and got no error. I have a local dealer that I trust, but they are a small shop with only a couple of mechanics so have to do a wide variety of types of work. I am considering going to trailer shop, (like for semi trucks). There are a couple in our area, that have been around for a while but no online reviews. If I call them, what kind of questions should I ask?

I know just before I had the error, I had tires replaces and bearings checked/greased. Returning home from next trip (about 50 miles each way), severe thunderstorms had brought down a tree in road, and I had to drive off side of road to get around (yes, slowly). I had a flash of an error during that trip home, but I forgot about it until a month later when I went to go again. At that point, I blamed error on dirty connections and drove the mile to very local campground. Could driving off the road have caused a brake issue? should I recommend shop look at brakes on that side first?

12 Replies

  • I know it is either wiring to brakes or brakes themselves. No brakes when towing.. lights all work. I tested truck with new trailer and everything worked. Would a semi trailer type shop be a good option? Or RV shop with 2 mechanics to do everything be better?
  • RoyB's avatar
    RoyB
    Explorer II
    Is your trailer brakes working for you... Use the manual slide switch and see if that stops you and trailer without pushing the brake pedal on the truck...

    I do this quick test everytime I hook up before I leave my neighbor hood...

    You can use your boy scout compass up close to each wheel when the brakes are applied and see if the needle deflects on each wheel... I think the Ford OEM brake controller however has to be moving above 10MPH before the Electric brakes get DC Voltages from using the Truck Brake Pedal. Works anytime using the manual slider switch... My 2010 Ford OEM Brake controller does this at any rate...

    My brakes make a low tone noise when the magnet is activated.

    It is a US DOT Safety law that your brakes and on-board trailer battery are working when being towed over public roads... This is an enforceable law... This is required for the Emergency break-away trailer switch being operational...

    Kinda of important to have working trailer brakes I would think...

    The Ford shop can tell you if the OEM Brake Controller is working properly for a $90 minimum shop fee... A boy scout compass is just a couple of dollars...

    Roy Ken

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