Hydraulic Trailer Drum Brakes Get Hot and Actuator Will Not Return After Storing Trailer for Winter

Updated 06/07/2012 | Published 06/06/2012

Question:

The drum brakes on my 2002 Venture VRT5000 are getting hot and I cannot use the trailer as it is. This lock up happened I believe over winter storage. The drum brakes are only on the front axle. The one on the right is getting much hotter than the one on the left. I am considering replacing the brake cylinders on both sides as well as checking the actuator and shock absorber. I have a Titan actuator. I removed the brake actuator and shock absorber to see if there was a problem. I was unable to move the shock absorber by hand. It is stamped TC2 2008-10inch It is I have not tested the brake actuator with fluid yet. It seems as if the drum brakes are not returning to their normal state not contacting the drum. I am also replacing the bearings in all wheels. Please let me know if you have any advice. I appreciate it

asked by: Brian M

Expert Reply:

It is possible that if there is a leak then you have air trapped in the system causing some problems. There could also be some corrosion somewhere that is not allowing the actuator to return to its normal state after being pushed in.

Since the brakes are getting so hot, you will want to look at the drums too to see if there is any warping or color changes that can affect the performance. You can take them to a brake shop to be inspected.

Testing the system with fluid is a good way to determine if there are leaks, air in the system, or a mechanical problem with the actuator. Make sure to fill the reservoir with fluid. Attach a hose to the bleeder screw and run the other end into a glass jar. Use a 2x4 or other object to get leverage and move the actuator in and out. When you stop seeing bubbles in the jar of fluid, all the air is out of that side.

Also check to see if the breakaway system is engaged. If it is then the trailer brake would be on all of the time. You may need to reset the system if this is the case, then re-bleed the brakes. If you are still having issues, it may be a better idea to switch to disc brakes. There are fewer moving parts so less could go wrong.

expert reply by: Michael H