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Tystevens's avatar
Tystevens
Explorer
May 19, 2014

Jerking trailer brakes

I need a little help diagnosing a trailer brake issue. Basically, the brakes jerk and pull erratically when I apply the brakes. I get the same issue towing with both of my trucks, and a similar readout on the display -- my Ford w/ integrated controller gives a "faulty trailer wiring" or some such message, and my after-market inertia controller on my Chevy gives on "OC" readout, which is open circuit or something like that. So I don't think it is an issue with the truck wiring or controller -- I think it is something on the trailer side of the connector. Also, all lights work just fine on the trailer. Drums were adjusted on Saturday, but the issue did not go away.

Is there a separate ground for the brakes? Any ideas where I should look for clues?

Thanks in advance!
  • 2oldman's avatar
    2oldman
    Explorer II
    May 19, 2014
    Mine did the same for awhile, now they don't work at all. After several attempts to fix them, I gave up.
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    May 19, 2014
    If your trailer brake wiring runs inside the axle, wiring could be chafed, and shorting/grounding causing erratic braking.

    Jerry
  • Tystevens's avatar
    Tystevens
    Explorer
    May 19, 2014
    Thanks for the tips. I had initially thought that it could not be a ground issue, as the lights work perfectly (they don't flicker or anything). I'll look for the ground for the brakes and go from there to start with.

    Note -- the manual states that a faulty ground can be the cause of the "wiring fault on trailer" message, so I think that is the right place to start.
  • mchero's avatar
    mchero
    Explorer
    May 19, 2014
    Yes, Bad grounds are a BIG problem. If you don't get a good ground thru the trailer wiring it will try & ground thru the ball hitch.
  • romore's avatar
    romore
    Explorer II
    May 19, 2014
    First check the exposed wires leaving the backing plates for damage. Slide the cover back on the trailer plug and make sure the connections are clean and tight. Next go to access panel where the cord enters the trailer and do the same. A multiple ground connector fell off ours when I touched it and the wires were corroded.

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