Weak Brakes

I would adjust the brakes first.

First adjust the brakes. If that does not give you the braking that you think you should get, look at the wires that are used on the trailer brakes and see what gauge wire was used. I have seen some pretty wimpy wires on some trailers.

What they said above plus pull the drums and check the shoes for grease contamination, etc. Plus since you bought it used a good time to check the bearings, clean and re-lube so you know the maintenance history.

BarabooBob wrote:
First adjust the brakes. If that does not give you the braking that you think you should get, look at the wires that are used on the trailer brakes and see what gauge wire was used. I have seen some pretty wimpy wires on some trailers.

Thanks. Not sure why adjusting them didn't occur to me...guess I assumed since it was new. Will start with that.

When inspecting, I thought those wired looked pretty light.

My 07 had a similar problem. My issue ended up being weak magnets in the brake assemblies! I replaced those and the braking was unbelievable!!!! Between the truck and trailer it would stop very well.
Just something else to check.

dodge guy wrote:
My 07 had a similar problem. My issue ended up being weak magnets in the brake assemblies! I replaced those and the braking was unbelievable!!!! Between the truck and trailer it would stop very well.
Just something else to check.

How did you determine that? Or did you just swap out the part and found it worked?

You might just jack up each wheel apply the brakes and see if you can turn the wheel by hand.

Good ideas to work on.
Another is many trailer mfg use some type of clamshell wiring connectors. Over time and miles water corrodes those connections to the point proper amps doesn't reach the magnets even though a dwell meter says 12v.

When I was on the road and put a new or used trailer in service the first thing I did was R&R the brakes/bearings/suspension and removed all clamshell connectors and bad or smallish wiring. I soldered all joints and made them water proof as much as possible. This ensures full amps from the controller to all the brakes.

X2, Flute Man.

Check the brake magnets with a magnetic compass to see if they are working. Simple test, pull the dynamite switch at the tongue then go to each wheel with your compass. is should point qiuickly at the wheel.