Troubleshooting Electric Brakes Locked Up After Snow
Question:
electric trailer brakes frozen up Moved our travel trailer a couple of days ago and everything was fine. It snowed last night so we decided to put it up in shop for the winter but the brakes are locked up on it. How do we get the brakes to release so we can move it again?
asked by: Gayle
Expert Reply:
It sounds like the snow/moisture may have caused a short and is drawing power to the electric brakes, causing the brakes to lock up.
I recommend checking both the vehicle and trailer side connectors for any corrosion or debris where the wires attach to the pins, simply cleaning out as needed. Next, check the wiring to the magnets on the brake assemblies. Make sure there are no exposed sections of wire that may have caused a short.
If you are still unable to resolve the issue, please let me know and I will be happy to look into this further.

Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 5.2K to 7K
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Standard Grade
- Self Adjust
- 12 x 2 Inch Drum
- 5200 lbs Axle
- 6000 lbs Axle
- 7000 lbs Axle
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- 16 Inch Wheel
- etrailer
more information >
Continue Researching
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: How to Adjust Your Trailer Brakes | The Ultimate Guide
- Q&A: Axletek-12-GG Replacement Brake Assembly and Hub Recommendation
- Article: Testing Trailer Brake Magnets for Proper Function
- Article: Trailer Drum Brakes vs. Disc Brakes: Making the Decision
- Article: How to Tell the Weight Rating of a Trailer Axle
- Article: Most Popular Wheel Bearings
- Q&A: Replacement Brake Assemblies for Hubs Marked BD-655-17
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Trailer
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Q&A: Comparing Dexter and etrailer.com 7,000 Pound Electric Brake Assemblies
- Q&A: Dexter vs. etrailer 7,000 lb Electric Trailer Brakes
- Q&A: Looking For Replacement Brake And Hubs For Trailer With 92655 Hubs
- Q&A: What is the Best Grease for Trailer Bearings