Trailer brake wiring

[Oxjockey]

Can someone explain trailer brake wiring to me? I have a single axle, two brake trailer, each have about 3. 2 Ohms resistance. The yahoo that wired my trailer made it so I have two 12v+ going to my brakes, and I get the feeling that one is supposed to go to ground. Can't figure out how the break away battery factors in, unless it's just switched and tied into the two leads for the brakes.





Oh, and I guess it also wouldn't make sense that my battery is only charged when the lights are on, but...



TIA,

Bryan

 

[Turbo Thom]

Wow Bryan, what a mess.



1. First, the break away switch is just a open switch with the pin in. Remove the pin and the switch is closed, allowing the battery to energize the brakes. How do the brakes work with two hot wires? Looks like a dead short to me.



2. The battery should always charge. There is a constant hot from battery in the truck. On a 7 pin plug it is the top, right.



3. Remember , the breakaway switch is wired inline with the brakes. It is part of the circuit.



If were you I would tear all the wiring mess out and do it right.



Good luck.



. . Preston. .

 

[Oxjockey]

Originally posted by Turbo Thom



If were you I would tear all the wiring mess out and do it right.

I can't stop thinking similar thoughts. And make wires consistent with the standard at the same time.



Bryan

 

[Oxjockey]

I got it figured out today, ran a new, BLUE 10 ga wire for the brakes, and the other side right to ground. Everything looks like it's working, just not all that well.



Bryan