how to release brakes when backing up.

pat fleming

Recruit
Joined
Jun 22, 2009
Messages
1
A friend just called from marina.. trying to back up a sea lion dual tandem trailer. He only has a 4 pin adapter but the trailer is a 5 pin. the brakes lock while backing up. Can you release the brake with out the 5 pin?
 

nlain

Commander
Joined
Nov 17, 2005
Messages
2,445
Re: how to release brakes when backing up.

There should be a lockout pin of some kind that would prevent the tounge from sliding or he can plug the running light connector on the fifth pin and turn on the lights and that should release the brakes, make sure he pulls forward first.
 

burp

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 3, 2002
Messages
363
Re: how to release brakes when backing up.

Yes, there is a fairly simple way to activate the trailer brake lockout soleniod so that you can back up the trailer. This is procedure FOR EMERGENCY PURPOSES ONLY!!!

On the trailer 5 pin flat electrical connector, the blue wire is for the brake lockout solenoid. This should be the blue male pin on the end of the connector. Plug this blue pin into the female pin for the brown wire on the 4 pin flat electrical connector on the tow vehicle. Connected in this manner, forms somewhat of a "T" shape and results in only 1 electrical pin being used on each half of the connectors. Then turn on the lights of the tow vehicle. The brown wire is for the marker/tail lights on the trailer. By turning on the tow vehicle lights, you apply power to the brown wire (of the tow vehicle) which is connect to the blue wire (brake lockout solenoid) on the trailer and energize the trailer brake lockout solenoid. Ground for the circuit is provided through the hitch ball, and the end result is the trailer can then be backed up.

Again, this is only to be used during a temporary emergency situation.
 

jmarty10

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 6, 2007
Messages
560
Re: how to release brakes when backing up.

I just purchased a lockout key from EZ loader for 5 bucks for this reason. The reverse lockout key just fits right in the pin/slot on your coupler. I'd buy this before jimmying around with electrical. Worked easily
 
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