Troubleshooting Trailer Brake Function and Grease Seal Failure
Question:
Trailer was just purchased and when checking brake condition found out the wheel where full of grease because of over greasing. Replaced all four brakes on trailer but only get a small amount of braking when tested. Checked voltage at brakes, ranges from 2 to 12 volts depending on actuator setting. Brakes were adjusted per your directions. Not sure what to do next.
asked by: Bob M
Expert Reply:
Since your brakes have been adjusted properly, that definitely rules out one issue. The overgreasing of the hubs and failing grease seal wouldn't have any impact on the braking unless somehow the grease got inside the drum, but you still want to get a proper replacement seal. If grease did get into the brake assembly, then the brake shoes are ruined and you absolutely need to replace the shoes at minimum. Because we don't know the extent, I recommend replacing the complete assembly with # AKEBRK-35-SA for 10 inch assemblies or # AKEBRK-7-SA for 12 inch assemblies.
It sounds like the voltage is in the right neighborhood depending on how you are testing. I recommend using an incandescent circuit tester like # PTW2993 while using the manual override on your brake controller to confirm a consistent power as well as increasing in voltage. You can also test with direct battery power which would eliminate all ground problems to ensure your brake magnets are functioning properly.
One more thing I recommend is cleaning your trailer connections on your vehicle and trailer. Using a little sand paper to clean the pins will help the connection and some dielectric grease # 11755 will further assist in keeping moisture and debris out for a solid connection that won't corrode.
I've attached a couple of articles to assist with troubleshooting further if needed.
Products Referenced in This Question
Dielectric Grease for Electrical Connectors, 2 oz.
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Wiring
- Wiring
- Dielectric Grease
- LubriMatic
more information >
etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 5.2K to 7K
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Standard Grade
- Self Adjust
- 12 x 2 Inch Drum
- 5200 lbs Axle
- 6000 lbs Axle
- 7000 lbs Axle
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- 16 Inch Wheel
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Standard Grade
- Self Adjust
- 10 x 2-1/4 Inch Drum
- 3500 lbs Axle
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: What Replacement Bearings Does Dexter 5,000 lb Axle
- Shop: etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 5.2K to 7K
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Grease Seal that Keeps Blowing Out on Trailer Axle
- Shop: Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Right Hand - 5,200 lbs to 7,000 lbs
- Shop: Hook Probe Circuit Tester
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: Grease Seals 10-36 (pair)
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Trailer
- Video: Grease Seals 10-36 (pair) Feature Review
- Search Results: brake drum
- Search Results: lubrimatic wheel bearing grease
- Shop: 2-1/2" Lubed Dust Cap and Rubber Plug - 2.45" x 1.52" x 1.18" - Qty 1
- Search Results: springs
- Search Results: dual axle trailer fenders
- Search Results: 3 way hitch
- Article: Trailer Lighting Requirements
- Shop: Bearing Kit, 14125A/ 25580 Bearings, 10-36 Seal
- Shop: Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 5.2K & 6K Axles - 12" - 6 on 5-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Q&A: Comparing etrailer/AxleTek and Dexter Electric Brake Assemblies
- Q&A: Is There a Difference Between Brake Assembly Replacement for Dexter Nev-R-Adjust 23-459
- Q&A: What is the Best Grease for Trailer Bearings
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: Breakaway Kit Installation for Single and Dual Brake Axle Trailers
- Search Results: #84 spindle
- Video: etrailer Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drums Installation - 2020 K-Z Sportsmen Classic Travel Trailer
- Video: Feature Breakdown: Buyers Products Tri-Ball Hitch
- Video: What to Know About the Reese Tri-Ball Trailer Hitch Ball Mount with Clevis Hook
- Video: Trailer Brakes and Wiring Installation
- Search Results: trailer brakes
- Article: Overview of Lubricating Grease
on Trailer Brakes
