Question:
I just bought a tandem axle trailer with brakes on the front axle only. I am rewiring the trailer because the wiring was ground off because of the previous owner. I have run my wiring for my lights and back up lights but I am not sure what I need to do to be able to wire my trailer brakes. I understand that one of the wires from the trailer brake goes to ground and one to positive, but do I need a 12v power source for the magnet to work or does that come from the truck when you hit the brakes? Do I need a battery for them to work? I will be using a 7 pin connector. This is my first time doing this so I need as much help as I can get! Thanks!
asked by: Bryce D
Expert Reply:
In order to rewire your trailer, I strongly recommend you use the Trailer Wiring 7-Way Upgrade Kit part # e99011 with the Bonded 4 Wire part # 16-4B-1. This is going to ensure you have all the correct wire gauge and the junction box makes for a clean install as well as an easy way to troubleshoot if you ever have issues. In regards to the brake output wire part # 10-1-1, this will receive power from the tow vehicle's brake controller via the 7-way, not a battery during normal braking. However, by law you will also need to have a breakaway system, the Curt Soft Trac II Trailer Breakaway Kit part # C52026 which will energize the trailer brakes if the trailer becomes disconnected from the tow vehicle.
I have attached a generic breakaway install photo for you.
etrailer Trailer Wiring 7-Way Upgrade Kit w/ Junction Box and RV Style Connector
