Trailer Wiring and Electric Brake Safety

In spite of continued improvements in trailer wiring and electrical components, wiring problems can occur if regular maintenance is avoided. Many of the problems we see with a trailers electrical system stem from the conditions under which many trailers are operating in. Under gravel road conditions the underside of the trailer is being bombarded by an abrasive mixture of sand and stone (gravel). The trailer is literally being sandblasted. This sandblasting effect can damage the wiring underneath the trailer. The most common problems are with the electrical wires coming out of the electric brakes. It is important to inspect the wiring on a regular basis to make sure the wires are clean and tucked up in position and not dangling in a vulnerable position. Under winter conditions it is important that the wiring behind the brake drums does not ice up. It is a good idea to wash the underneath with a high pressure washer to remove corrosive salts and road gravel and other corrosive materials that may be present. Other causes of wiring problems are poor grounding or poor contacts in the truck end or trailer end electrical plugs. Often there is corrosion on the electrical plug terminals and that prevents proper electrical conduction. It is a good idea to spray the electrical plugs with a good penetrating fluid or WD-40 to help dissolve the built up corrosion. Don't forget to check the electrical ground as part of your check list if your trailers electrical system is not working properly.
For Trailer Wiring Diagrams click " here "