One of Four Electric Trailer Brakes Locks Up When Brakes are Applied

Updated 03/31/2015 | Published 03/28/2015

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Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Left Hand - 6,000 lbs

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$92.81

Brake Adjustment Spoon for Drum Brakes

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$8.08

Question:

tandem axel with 4 wheel electric brakes when I apply the brakes one of the four wheels lock up the other three work as they are supposed to. WHY?

asked by: John W

Expert Reply:

Since your brake controller appears to be working - 3 of the 4 trailer brake assemblies work correctly - the issue is likely to be on the trailer side. The issue with one of your four brake assemblies locking up could be due to it needing adjustment or it could indicate a problem with one or more of the components in the brake assembly. There could also be an outside chance that the spindle on that end of the axle is bent, which could lead to excessive pressure on the brake pads.

First, check the adjustment wheel on the brake. You can use a tool like # W80630 or a flat blade screwdriver to adjust the star wheel. Please refer to the linked video at the 3-minute mark. The brake adjustment should result in slight audible drag of the pads on the hub surface.

If that does not correct the problem then pull the hub and inspect the brake assembly for any damaged components - such as broken springs or a worn out magnet that is causing a short. I have linked an article the explains how to test your brake magnet for proper operation.

expert reply by: Adam R