Troubleshooting Electric Trailer Brake Assembly That is Running Hot

Updated 01/24/2014 | Published 01/22/2014

Question:

Having trouble with right rear brake runnig hot and smoking, this is the secound time this happened. The bearings look very good, checked the magnet,s with out removing hub,s and we hear like it is working with a little noise when applying trailer brakes.

asked by: JACK V

Helpful Expert Reply:

I would recommend completely ruling out the bearings by closely examining them and the spindle for discoloration caused by overheating. If you have determined that it is the brakes that are hot, and not the hub itself, I would recommend readjusting the brake assembly. What you are experiencing could certainly happen if the brake assembly was out of adjustment.

To adjust the brake assembly, jack up trailer and secure on adequate capacity jack stands. Check that the wheel and drum rotate freely. Do not lift or support trailer on any part of the axle or the suspension system. Remove the adjusting hole cover from the adjusting slot on the rear of the brake backing plate. With a screwdriver or standard brake adjusting tool, rotate the starwheel of the adjuster assembly to expand the brake shoes. Adjust the brake shoes out until the pressure of the linings against the drum makes the wheel very difficult to turn. Then rotate the starwheel in the opposite direction until the wheel turns freely with a slight lining drag. Replace the adjusting hole cover and lower the wheel to the ground. I would recommend checking the remaining brake assemblies for adjustment, as well.

I have linked you to a video showing how to adjust trailer brake assemblies. Simply fast forward the video to the 1:50 mark, and you can see one of our technicians demonstrating how to adjust a brake assembly.

expert reply by: Mike L