Why are Electric Brakes Getting Hot on 98 Coleman Camper After Installation of New Brake Assemblies

Updated 06/25/2010 | Published 06/24/2010

Question:

I own a 98 Coleman Bayside Camper, the camper came with electric brakes, recently I repacked the bearings, and replaced the brake Module on both the right and left side including new tires. The problem I have is when I road tested the unit the wheel on the passenger side gets hot enough to burn you. Have tried re-adjusting the toggle of the actual brakes and everything appears to be working properly but yet when I road test it the wheel is still hot enough to burn you. Do you have any suggestions / recommendations?

asked by: Barry C

Expert Reply:

It sounds to me as if there is one of three problems going on. The most likely problem is that the brake assembly on the right side is not properly adjusted. There is an access hole in the backing plate to insert a brake adjusting tool through and turn the adjuster in or out to properly adjust the trailer brakes.

We have a video on trailer brake installation and at 4 minutes 40 seconds trailer brake adjustment is shown. Tighten up the brakes inside the drum until it stops turning. Then back off 10 clicks, you should have a very fine light drag. If the drag is too heavy to easily turn the drum then you need to back the adjuster off some more.

The next possibility is that the magnet is not releasing from the brake drum for some reason. You will need to check to make sure that there is not power on the right side brake magnet for some reason. If there is a small amount of electrical current the magnet will remain attached to the drum which will cause excessive heat in the assembly.

Finally, and least likely, you may have the wrong brake assembly on the right side of the trailer. Check the brake shoes, the shorter shoe should should be on the forward side of the brake assembly. If the longer shoe is in the front this could be the cause for the problem.

I definitely would not recommend towing for any distance with the brake assembly getting excessively hot. If you cannot find the problem a qualified mechanic should be consulted.

expert reply by: Robert G