Do Brake Assemblies Tighten/Loosen by Spinning Star Wheel Same Direction On Both Sides of Axle
Updated 02/18/2026 | Published 02/17/2026
Question:
The photo and explanation for the adjustment of the brake is for the right hand side. If doing the left, is the orientation the same?? I’m trying to loosen the brake on a left hand side and the silver tab that holds the wheel is on top, so I can’t press down. I can push up on it, seems to clear the wheel, but not down. My brake is locked up tight, can’t move the wheel to loosen it. Can’t get my hub to move, can’t remove it.
asked by: Pam D
Expert Reply:
Hey Pam, so if you are trying to loosen the brake assembly tightness the direction you would push the star wheel would be opposite of the other side of the trailer axle as the assemblies are mirrored. If your star wheel will go one direction but not the other and the wheel is acting like it's locked up then the direction it does allow you to turn it would be what you would want to go with.
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 10" - Left Hand - 3,500 lbs
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- LH
- 3500 lbs
- Brake Assembly
- Self Adjust
- 10 x 2-1/4 Inch Drum
- Dexter
more information >
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Albert B.
2/18/2026
You’re never gonna get that drum to move or come off. Knock off grease cap, remove the cotter pin, spin off the castle nut and pull off the entire drum and brake. Get a new Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brake Assembly and Drum package, comes already packed with grease. It’s an easy fix. YouTube has many videos on how to do it yourself. Get rid of the manually adjusted brakes. You will never regret it. Good luck!