Materials and Tools:
1. Electric brake controller (installed in your tow vehicle)
2. Electric brake actuator (mounted on the trailer frame)
3. Brake magnets (located on the brake drum)
4. Wiring harness (typically included with the brake controller)
5. Crimping tool
6. Wire strippers
7. Voltage tester
8. Socket wrench set
Instructions:
1. Identify the Wiring Harness: Locate the wiring harness that came with your brake controller. It should consist of several color-coded wires: yellow, green, black, red, and white.
2. Connect Brake Actuator: Mount the brake actuator on the trailer frame according to the manufacturer's instructions. It usually sits near the trailer's axle.
3. Disconnect Battery: Disconnect the negative battery terminal on both the towing vehicle and the trailer to ensure electrical safety.
4. Install Brake Magnets: Mount the brake magnets on the brake drums according to their respective sides (left and right). Ensure they are correctly aligned with the brake shoes inside the drum.
5. Connect Magnet Wires: Attach the wiring harness wires to the corresponding terminals on the brake magnets.
- Connect the yellow wire from the wiring harness to the "+" terminal of the brake magnet.
- Connect the green wire from the wiring harness to the "-" terminal of the brake magnet.
6. Connect Magnets to Actuator: Route the wiring from the brake magnets to the brake actuator.
- Connect the yellow wires from both magnets to the "Magnets +" terminal on the actuator.
- Connect the green wires from both magnets to the "Magnets -" terminal on the actuator.
7. Ground Connections: Ensure that the brake actuator has a good ground connection with the trailer frame. If not, create a ground by connecting a separate wire from the actuator to an unpainted metal surface on the trailer frame.
8. Connect to Brake Controller: Back in the towing vehicle, connect the wiring harness coming from the trailer to the terminals on the brake controller. Follow the connection instructions provided with your specific brake controller.
9. Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative battery terminals on both the towing vehicle and the trailer.
10. Test Brake Control: With the trailer attached, and your tow vehicle in a safe location, gradually apply the brake pedal of your tow vehicle to check that the trailer brakes are engaging smoothly. Use a voltage tester to verify if power is reaching the brake magnets when the brake pedal is pressed.
Note: Different brake controllers and actuator systems may have slight variations in wiring configurations. Therefore, always refer to the specific instructions provided with your particular brake controller and actuator for accurate wiring guidance. If you are uncomfortable working on electrical systems, it is recommended to seek assistance from a qualified professional.
