Why Are New Hydraulic Brakes Getting Hot and Smoking

Updated 05/01/2019 | Published 04/29/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Hydraulic Trailer Brakes - Uni-Servo - Galvanized - 12" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 7K

(44)

$146.95

LubriMatic LMX Industrial Strength Grease - 14 oz. Cartridge

(270)

$8.41

Bearing Packer - Plastic

(175)

$7.53

Question:

I just installed these brakes on my 5200 lb axle with hub drums and adjusted them so that there was a slight amount of drag when spinning them by hand after testing them for about five miles, one of the brakes was smoking and the other was hot but not smoking. Is there a recommended way to adjust them so as to prevent this occurrence? using a brand new Demco surge actuator with all new brake lines as well. Thank you.

asked by: Mark

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you installed the Demco Hydraulic Brake Kit # 23511-10 correctly but it is possible you may have adjusted them a bit too aggressively, as "slight drag" is subjective, of course. Otherwise there could be an issue with your drum assembly if it is on the older side. If the assembly is at all warped or slightly corroded that can be an issue.

Another problem may be that the hub needs to be properly greased and the bearings packed with Bearing Grease # L11390 and a bearing packer like # PTW1218. If you don't have proper lubrication then the heat can transfer and may be the reason your brakes are running hot.

expert reply by: Kyle S