Normally as I first move forward after hooking up my trailer I squeeze the paddles together to test the brake circuit, I feel them grab and continue on. A few days ago I wanted to test the brakes to see if I could lock the trailer brakes with the controller and found I could not. There is considerable drag but I can still roll the trailer wheels with full controller power applied. I've checked the trailer brakes and they're properly adjusted. The brakes do lockup when I pull the breakaway switch.

I'm wonder what others have experienced. I'm thinking about taking the truck to the dealer to have the TBC checked out but thought I'd ask here first. The TBC gain is set to 10.

Rob

 

This has been my experience as well, it does this with all trailers.
I believe it has to do with the truck applying an anti-lock setting to the trailer brakes.

 

Is this a change from how it used to be with same truck and trailer?If so it appears something has changed..

I have mine set purposely not to lock up on dry pavement.They will lock on crushed stone but not pavement.Reason being is because you lose all your stopping power once the trailer brakes are locked up.Mine are set just prior to that point.Sorry if you know this already but you wouldnt believe how many people still believe you will stop faster with wheels locked..

 

I agree Rob, I would like to set the gain just before the wheels locked up. My concern is that I would think I should be able to lock the brakes then back down the gain. My I ask what gaining setting you use?

Rob

 

If you are using the Ford TBC you will never lock your RV wheels...at least not since 2005 MY TBC. Not on pavement anyway. Unless you pull the emergency disconnect cable.

 

I have found my owners manual contains a wealth of information. Whenever I have a question I usually start there. From my 2012 owners manual:

"Procedure for adjusting GAIN:
The GAIN setting is used to set the TBC for the specific towing condition
and should be changed as towing conditions change. Changes to towing
conditions include trailer load, vehicle load, road conditions and weather.
The GAIN should be set to provide the maximum trailer braking
assistance while ensuring the trailer wheels do not lock when braking;
locked trailer wheels may lead to trailer instability.
Note: This should only be performed in a traffic-free environment at
speeds of approximately 20–25 mph (30–40 km/h).
1. Make sure the trailer brakes are in good working condition, functioning
normally and properly adjusted. See your trailer dealer if necessary.
2. Hook up the trailer and make the electrical connections according to
the trailer manufacturer’s instructions.
3. When a trailer with electric brakes is plugged in, the TRAILER
CONNECTED message displays in the instrument cluster message center.
4. Use the GAIN adjustment (+/-) buttons to increase or decrease the
GAIN setting to the desired starting point. A GAIN setting of 6.0 is a
good starting point for heavier loads.
5. In a traffic-free environment, tow the trailer on a dry, level surface at
a speed of 20–25 mph (30–40 km/h) and squeeze the manual control
lever completely.
6. If the trailer wheels lock up (indicated by squealing tires), reduce the
GAIN setting; if the trailer wheels turn freely, increase the GAIN setting.
Repeat Steps 5 and 6 until the GAIN setting is at a point just below
trailer wheel lock-up. If towing a heavier trailer, trailer wheel lock-up
may not be attainable even with the maximum GAIN setting of 10."

 

Well shoot, I think that says it all. Thanks for the information.

Rob