Why Would Electric Trailer Brakes Lock Up When Hub is Spun Backwards

Updated 07/25/2018 | Published 07/24/2018

Question:

Put on new brakes. Hub/drum turns forward ok but if you turn it backwards it locks up the wheel. No 12 volts connected yet. If I loosen the spindle nut it turns both ways easy but when tighten the nut it turns forward but not backward. Will adjusting the brake shoe fix this issue.

asked by: Paul D

Expert Reply:

There's something mechanically wrong with the brake assemblies or you have a drum that needs to be replaced or turned. Electric trailer brakes should not lock up when turned in reverse. Especially if there's no current involved on any of the wiring. That means it's a mechanical problem. Something in the linkage much be catching as the hub turns which is then pushing the shoes apart and activating them.

expert reply by: Jameson C