Trailer Hub and Drum Is Stuck On Trailer and Brakes Will Not Release

Updated 06/28/2012 | Published 06/27/2012

Question:

My rear hubs on my two axle horse trailer have been getting hot, upon inspection, my hubs will not come off. It appears the brake pad still have pressure on the drum. How do I get them off.

asked by: Chuck G

Expert Reply:

If you have electric brakes, disconnect the electrical connection from the tow vehicle. If they are hydraulic brakes make sure the trailer is not positioned so that it is pointed down a hill. If it is and it is connected to the tow vehicle, the weight of the trailer can push in actuator and apply pressure to the brakes.

Once you have the hubs removed you are going to want to inspect the inside surfaces where the pads touch and where the magnet (if electric) attaches (the armature surface). If there is discoloration then you will need to replace the hubs. A brake shop can further inspect the hubs for wear.

If the heat was excessive enough you could be experiencing bearing failure to the point where the bearing may have welded itself to the spindle and hub. If you still have trouble removing the hubs, I recommend getting the trailer somehow to a shop that works on trailers or a trusted mechanic.

After the hub and drum assemblies are free you will need to determine what created the problem. Air in a hydraulic system or worn brake magnets could cause the brakes to stick.

expert reply by: Michael H