Troubleshooting Hot Hubs and Rims on a Trailer
Updated 01/19/2026 | Published 08/13/2024
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I recently installed the 10” 2 1/4” electric brakes on my trailer, and noticed after driving a long distance on the highway without hitting the brakes much at all, that both hubs and rims were extremely hot! So hot you couldn’t touch them. Did the brakes self-adjust too tight and now I have another problem? What would you recommend I do now?
asked by: Dennis M
Expert Reply:
Hey Dennis, thanks for reaching out!
If you're talking about the etrailer Electric Brake Kit # AKEBRK-35-SA, you will need to initially adjust them so that there is a slight drag when you spin the hub.
It sounds like your brakes may have initially been adjusted for too much braking power and they need to be backed off. If you do have them adjusted so there is a slight drag without them being applied, then your system might be applying the brakes prematurely and you'll need to look into investigate what's going on.
The only other thing that could be going on is your bearings could be overheating, and for that you'll need to make sure the grease is good and the bearings aren't damaged.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Demco Hydraulic Trailer Brakes - Free Backing - Galvanized - Left/Right - 10" - 3.5K
- Trailer Brakes
- Hydraulic Drum Brakes
- Marine Grade
- Free Backing
- Manual Adjust
- Single Servo
- 10 x 2-1/4 Inch Drum
- 3500 lbs Axle
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- Demco
more information >
Continue Researching
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Trailer Brakes and Grease Seal Failure
- Q&A: Do Brake Shoes Need to be Replaced if Grease Spilled on Them
- Q&A: Brand New 7k Dexter Brake Assemblies on Trailer are Not Strong Enough
- Shop: Grease Seal - Double Lip - ID 1.719" / OD 2.565" - for 3,500-lb Axles - Qty 2
- Shop: etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K
- Q&A: Advantages Of Tekonsha P3 Trailer Brake Controller Over Integrated Controller On 2017 Ford F-150
- Q&A: Service Trailer Brakes Message on Truck After Breakaway Cable Pulled
- Q&A: How to Put the P2 Brake Controller in Electric Over Hydraulic Mode
- Q&A: Chart With Error Codes Explained for the Prodigy P2 90885
Lazer S.
1/19/2026
Hey Dennis, how did things turn out after you backed off the adjustment on your trailer brakes? Were the hubs still running hot after that long drive? Your update could make it easier for others dealing with the same issue.