Some people think that just because your unit slows down when you apply your RV trailer brakes that they are all working properly, however this could be far from true.  A friend showed me a sure way to check to ensure each brake is doing its fair share of the work, by using a simple magnetic compass.

Have your helper hold the compass about three inches below the wheel hub, close enough to the rim without touching it.  Now, activate the trailer brake from inside the cab.  If the compass needle starts moving erratically, then that wheel brake is working.  Do the same with each wheel, ensuring the compass needle has settled down from the previous test before testing the next wheel.

If any of your RV trailer brakes magnets fail to move the needle, then that brake magnet is not doing its job.  In that case, either try to find the problem, or take it to your nearest RV technician to have them troubleshoot the problem.  If they all fail, check your brake control.  Remember to check the wiring and fuses, sometimes it can be just that simple and could save you a costly repair bill.

Oh, and don’t forget to put your compass back in your repair kit, since this is an excellent way to check other electromagnetic solenoid switches!  And, you never know when you might get lost in the boonies!

Tekonsha Voyager Brake Control 9030