Wiring Diagram for Electric Trailer Brakes

If you own a trailer that is equipped with electric brakes, it is essential to understand how the wiring works. In this article, we’ll discuss the wiring diagram for electric trailer brakes in detail. We’ll cover the basics of electric trailer brakes, the components involved, and the wiring diagram.

What are Electric Trailer Brakes?

Electric trailer brakes use a brake controller to generate an electric signal that applies the trailer’s brakes when the towing vehicle’s brakes are engaged. They are designed to provide a more efficient and reliable braking system for trailers than traditional surge brakes.

The electric brakes are typically installed on the trailer’s axles and operate using a magnet that is mounted inside the brake assembly. When the brake controller sends an electric signal to the trailer brakes, the magnets are energized, and the brake shoes are pressed against the brake drum, causing the trailer to slow down or stop.

Components of an Electric Brake System

Before discussing the wiring diagram, let’s take a look at the components that make up an electric brake system.

1. Brake Controller

The brake controller is the heart of the electric brake system. It is usually installed in the cab of the towing vehicle and is responsible for sending the electric signal to the trailer brakes. It receives power from the vehicle’s battery and can be adjusted to control the amount of braking force applied to the trailer.

2. Brake Magnet

The brake magnet is an electromagnet that is mounted inside the brake assembly. When the brake controller sends an electric signal to the trailer brakes, the magnet is energized, and it pulls the brake shoes against the brake drum, causing the trailer to slow down or stop.

3. Brake Shoes and Drums

The brake shoes and drums are the components that provide the stopping power for the trailer. When the brake magnet is energized, it pulls the brake shoes against the brake drum, creating friction and slowing down or stopping the trailer.

Wiring Diagram for Electric Trailer Brakes

The wiring diagram for electric trailer brakes is relatively simple. It consists of seven wires that connect the brake controller to the trailer brakes.

1. Blue Wire

The blue wire is the output wire of the brake controller. It sends an electric signal to the trailer’s brakes when the vehicle’s brakes are applied.

2. White Wire

The white wire is the ground wire. It provides a path for the electric current to return to the battery.

3. Black Wire

The black wire is the power wire. It provides power to the brake controller from the vehicle’s battery.

4. Yellow Wire

The yellow wire is the brake wire. It connects the brake controller to the brake switch on the vehicle.

5. Green Wire

The green wire is the stoplamp wire. It connects the brake controller to the stoplamp switch on the vehicle.

6. Brown Wire

The brown wire is the tail light wire. It connects the brake controller to the tail light circuit on the vehicle.

7. Red Wire

The red wire is the battery wire. It connects the brake controller to the positive terminal of the vehicle’s battery.

FAQ

Q: Can electric trailer brakes be used with any towing vehicle?

A: No, the towing vehicle must be equipped with a brake controller to use electric trailer brakes.

Q: How do I know if my trailer has electric brakes?

A: Check the brake assembly. If you see a magnet mounted inside, then the trailer has electric brakes.

Q: Can I install electric trailer brakes myself?

A: It is possible to install electric trailer brakes yourself, but it is recommended to have them installed by a professional to ensure they are installed correctly and work safely.

Q: How often should I check the trailer brakes?

A: You should check the trailer brakes before each trip and have them serviced annually to ensure they are working correctly and safely.

Q: What happens if the brake controller fails?

A: If the brake controller fails, the trailer brakes will not work, and the trailer will rely on the tow vehicle’s brakes to stop.

Q: Can I adjust the brake controller?

A: Yes, the brake controller can be adjusted to control the amount of braking force applied to the trailer. The adjustment should be made according to the trailer’s weight and the towing vehicle’s braking capacity.

Wire Color Function
Blue Output from Brake Controller
White Ground
Black Power
Yellow Brake Wire
Green Stoplamp Wire
Brown Tail Light Wire
Red Battery Wire