When Braking, Trailer Pulls Hard to One Side and Causes Sway

Published 05/09/2014

Question:

Just bought this trailer and original owner told me that he put new hubs and brakes on it. When I pull the trailer it jerks to one side real bad. I pulled wheels on the left side of trailer. Found both wheels set up differntly. The arm on the front axle is facing around toward the back of trailer and the rear axle was facing curving around the front. Also the long shoe was mounted on the front on the front axle and the long shoe mounted on the rear for the axle. Also the adjusting spring interferes with the adjustment piece. Which way does the adjustment part face on the left side. I know the right side is complete opposite from left. I have always been taught that long shoes mount on the rear of backing plate. Does this matter? This trailer jerks and pulls so bad that it causes truck to get loose and trailer sways. Please help.

asked by: Tom B

Helpful Expert Reply:

It does sound like the previous owner did not install the assemblies correctly. An easy way to make sure you have the brakes on correctly is to lock at the actuating arm. It should always point towards the front of the trailer. I have included a picture showing what I mean.

It sounds like the previous owner got a bunch of assemblies all the same so you have some left side brakes on the right side.

The adjustment wheel is supposed to make contact with the spring. That is what it is adjusting (which in turn moves the shoes in and out).

There could also be an issue with the adjustment of the brakes. You should here a slight but constant drag of the pads on the drum when turning it.

expert reply by: Michael H