Do Self-Adjusting Trailer Brake Assemblies have to be Initially Adjusted

Updated 09/07/2021 | Published 09/04/2021

Question:

Im replacing the brakes on my travel trailer and Ive seen a number of articles, including some of yours, which recommend an initial adjustment. However, in looking at the adjusting wheel, there are two potential issues. First, the brake assembly automatic adjusting lever is positioned as to impede access and is notched on the star wheel and apparently will prevent the wheel from rotating. Second, the notches on the wheel are tapered and will only engage with the brake adjustment tool in one direction in the other it simply slides across the notches. So is it totally necessary to do this initial adjustment? If its NOT done, then how best to have the brakes adjust themselves and how long would it take? Were leaving on a long trip through mountainous terrain in two weeks, and I want them right. Thanks

asked by: Tom D

Expert Reply:

You don't have to do an initial adjustment with self-adjusting trailer brake assemblies, and since it's challenging for the reasons you mentioned I don't recommend doing it and personally wouldn't if it was my trailer. Easiest solution is to let the self-adjusters do the work as all you have to do is apply the brakes several times while moving and they will tighten with each application.

Typically you can just find like an empty parking lot and while travelling slowly grab the manual override of the brake controller repeatedly and eventually the they will be properly adjusted.

expert reply by: Jameson C