How do Electric Trailer Brakes Work on a Travel Trailer and How Often to Grease Bearings

Updated 06/19/2014 | Published 06/17/2014

Question:

I have a Keystone Outback 27ft travel trailer. I have two questions: 1. Does the trailer brakes use any brake fluid? I have electric brakes, but I never thought to ask the dealer about brake fluid. 2. How often should the wheel bearings be greased? Just as a precaution I pumped a few squirts of grease into the zert fittings today but wasnt sure if it needed it.

asked by: Wayson

Expert Reply:

Electric brakes do not use brake fluid. They work by a brake controller sending back voltage to an electro-magnet. When energized the magnet stick to the armature surface of the brake drum. The spinning of the drum pulls out the brake shoes and the pads make contact with the inside of the drum, slowing the trailer.

As far as how often to grease the bearings it really depends on how much the trailer is used, how many miles are put on it, the conditions you are driving in, and so on. You will want to grease the bearings at least once per towing season.

expert reply by: Michael H