Troubleshooting Smoking Brakes On a 2023 Forest River Mini-Lite 2509S

Question:

Electric brakes engaged on my 2023 Forrest River Mini-Lite 2509s when I turned on my trucks headlights. When it happened, I thought my truck downshifted going up a hill. Went about 10 miles when someone got my attention at a stoplight, saying to check my brakes. There was a little bit of smoke and wheels were hot. I was only a mile from home, so I continued, going slow the rest of the way. Im guessing a short caused the issue. The wheels didnt lock up and Im wondering if itd be safe to take into a shop.

asked by: Ray S

Expert Reply:

Ray, you should be fine to get your trailer to a shop as long as you take it easy on the way there. There are a couple of things you can do before that though if you want to try and fix it yourself.

The first thing I'd do is check for a short on the break output wire. You'll need to check the wire that runs from the brake assemblies to the trailer connector for any damage or broken wire.

If that looks good, then I'd suggest popping off the wheels/hubs and inspect the all of the internal components (shoes/springs/adjuster wheel). If all that looks good, then I'd move to the bearings and make sure that they are all properly lubricated. If they are not properly lubricated, that could cause excess heat which could lead to some smoking.

After the bearings are checked then the last thing you could check is for a short on the brake output wire. If all that looks fine, then I'd suggest taking it too a professional to have them look at it.

expert reply by: Bryce D