Troubleshooting Hydraulic Drum Brakes on Boat Trailer Rubbing After Removing Actuator

Updated 09/21/2020 | Published 09/20/2020

Question:

We have a roller boat trailer with hydraulic drum brakes we got along with our 2002 boat... after getting it we had issues with the actuator when hitching and backing up so we removed the actuator on the tongue and replaced it with a standard coupler and left the hydraulic line open. The second time we used the trailer after being stored for 5 months the brakes were rubbing and making a grinding sound. The boat with motor is only 1,700 lbs and we think were comfortable without the brakes. Did removing the actuator and having the hydraulic line open cause the brakes to engage for some reason? Can we remove the drum brake components to more effectively disconnect the brake system? Long term we would be comfortable changing out the system with new components should we trailer more, but we typically are only using it to put the boat in at the beginning of the season and taking it out at the end of the year for storage We live in MN. Thanks!

asked by: Dan

Expert Reply:

With your boat trailer, removing the actuator would not have caused the brakes to apply. It sounds like there is a mis-adjustment with the assembly due to either the springs or adjuster spacer not engaging correctly. I assume the lack of pressure in the wheel cylinder likely meant shifting of the brake shoes and causing misalignment. I recommend removing the hub and then removing the brake shoes, springs, and adjuster. This will remove any braking issues causing rubbing/grinding. I recommend still keeping the brake backing plate on to keep debris out of the drum. You can remove the wheel cylinder or keep it installed, but you will want to remove the piston.

If at some point you want to remove the assembly backing, then I recommend changing the hub/drum to idler hubs. You will need to check the hub bearings for the number printed on them to get the correct hub replacements. I personally would wait because of the function/use until the bearings need repaired or replaced.

expert reply by: Jason S