Troubleshooting New Trailer Brakes that Seem Weak

Updated 07/22/2021 | Published 07/21/2021

Question:

I just installed new brakes. Im getting 12 volts and the brakes are adjusted properly. As Im driving I manually bring the gain to 10. I cant feel any slow down at all. With the tire lifted by a jack and the gain at 10 I can turn the wheel by hand. It does require some pressure but I can turn it. They seem pretty weak. Is this just how they are?

asked by: Tyler

Expert Reply:

Trailer brakes need to be adjusted so that they engage properly. If you have manual adjust assemblies you'd need to turn the star wheel on the back of the assembly till there's a light drag on the drums as you turn the wheel by hand. If you have self-adjusting brake assemblies you can just go out and apply the brakes over and over as you are travelling slowly and the adjustments will happen automatically but it may take several applications.

expert reply by: Jameson C