Can Self Adjusting Trailer Brake Assemblies be Manually Adjusted
Updated 10/22/2025 | Published 04/06/2025
Question:
Is there anything special about manually adjusting self adjusting trailer brakes? I notice there are 2 little openings in rear of backing plate. One has the wheel. What’s the other opening for? Do I have to move the self adjuster out of the way to rotate the wheel up? Thanks
asked by: Larry G
Expert Reply:
Hey Larry, the self adjusting brake assemblies can be manually adjusted but it is a little harder since the self adjuster mechanism does partially block access to the star wheel and it also puts additional pressure on it which makes it a little harder to turn. With a brake spoon like the part # W80630 though you should have any problem turning the wheel.
Jameson C.
10/22/2025
Hey Larry, how did things go when you tried adjusting your self-adjusting trailer brakes with the brake spoon? Your update could make it easier for others working with the same setup.