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TNGW1500SE's avatar
TNGW1500SE
Explorer
Mar 18, 2022

Trailer Brakes

I have a 2020 transit 250. I just installed a set of new trailer electric brakes on my 12x6 cargo trailer. Somewhere around 2K pounds. I got them off Amazon. The brand is Southwest Wheel 3,500 lbs. Trailer Axle Electric Brake Kit. It's a magnetic drum kit.

I also installed a Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Controller. I hooked the controller up to the CCP connector and grounded it between the seats at the factory ground. Got a brake signal off the connector at the brake pedal using the far left connector. Ran a wire all the way back to the new 7 pin connector.

It works but barely. You can feel the brakes a little bit if you move the lever when the controller is set on 14 (Max) with the boost set to 3 (high). If I pull the lever all the way the controller reads up to 13.5. It does apply power to the brakes (like it should) when I apply the vans brakes as well. I adjusted the brakes before I drove it the first time and then again after driving. I turned the adjuster until the wheel wouldn't turn and backed it off a few clicks just until it had a very little drag. Set on 14 with the boost on 3 it will barely kick in the brakes and will not lock up even in gravel. Everything is new.

UPDATE: Measured voltage at the trailer. 10.43 volts when the lever is pulled to max
  • I can't tow it. It would take 4 tires to tow it 40 miles. The tire is towed in at least an inch. I'd leave rubber all over the road.

    UPDATE: Replaced the axle. The brakes, (now that they are seated in) work fine. I will not be cranking up the brake boaster mush more than a little assist from the trailer when driving and nowhere close to a lockup.

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