Troubleshooting surge brakes when in reverse

[Rds1969]

Hi I have been having trouble with my trailer for my 2012 26m.

Backing into its parking spot the brakes are locking up, it never did this before it's on flat ground, I'm using the key in the trailer to disengage the surge actuator,

Is there any troubleshooting procedure steps that I can do?

Thx

I apologize if this question has been posted already

[NiceAft]

The key you are using is a manual override. The breaks work by being electrically connected to your back-up lights. Check all electrical connections from tow vehicle to the trailer. Clean the connections well, maybe even apply some dialectic grease.

Ray

[Chinook]

The wiring from the backup lights activate a solenoid (I think that's what the part is, anyway), which prevents the master cylinder in the surge brake coupler from engaging. Speaking from experience, that little electronic unit can fail, and the result is brakes that lock up when backing up a hill. If it's working properly, you should be able to hear a clicking sound when you shift into reverse. If the coupler is silent, and your electrical connections are good, then the solenoid probably needs to be replaced. Inexpensive and easy to do.