If you’ve ever towed a trailer, you know how critical it is to have the brakes working perfectly. Electric trailer brakes are a common choice for many trailers due to their effectiveness and ease of use. However, like any other brake system, they may need adjustments over time to ensure optimal performance. You may be wondering, Can you adjust electric trailer brakes? The answer is yes, and in this guide, we will walk you through how to do it, why adjustments are necessary, and tips for maintaining electric trailer brakes.
Why Do Electric Trailer Brakes Need Adjustments?
Electric trailer brakes rely on an electrical signal from the tow vehicle’s brake controller to activate the braking mechanism inside the wheel drum. Over time, the brake shoes inside the drum can wear down or shift slightly, which may lead to decreased braking performance or uneven brake application. Regular adjustments help ensure that the brakes are engaging evenly and at the right pressure.
Several signs can indicate that your electric trailer brakes need adjusting:
- Reduced Braking Power: If your trailer feels like it’s not stopping as effectively as it used to, this could be a sign that the brake shoes have worn down and need adjustment.
- Uneven Braking: If your trailer pulls to one side when braking, the brakes may not be adjusted evenly.
- Noisy Brakes: Squealing or grinding sounds when braking could be due to the brake shoes not aligning properly with the drum, indicating a need for adjustment.
How to Adjust Electric Trailer Brakes
Adjusting electric trailer brakes is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure safety and effectiveness. Below is a step-by-step guide to adjusting your electric trailer brakes:
1. Lift the Trailer
Start by safely lifting the trailer off the ground. Make sure to use a jack that is rated for the weight of the trailer and secure the trailer on jack stands. This will allow you to rotate the wheels freely while making adjustments.
2. Locate the Adjustment Slot
On the back of the brake assembly, you will find an adjustment slot covered by a rubber plug. Remove this plug to access the brake adjuster, which is typically a star wheel that can be turned to adjust the tension of the brake shoes.
3. Rotate the Star Wheel
Using a brake adjustment tool or a flat-head screwdriver, rotate the star wheel inside the brake assembly. Turning the star wheel will either tighten or loosen the brake shoes against the drum. You want to turn the star wheel until the brake shoes lightly contact the drum, creating a slight drag when the wheel is rotated by hand.
4. Check for Proper Tension
After adjusting the star wheel, rotate the wheel by hand. There should be a slight resistance, but the wheel should still turn smoothly. If the wheel is too tight and difficult to rotate, back off the star wheel slightly until the correct tension is achieved.
5. Repeat on All Wheels
Once you have adjusted one wheel, repeat the process on all the other wheels of the trailer. It’s essential to ensure that all the brakes are adjusted evenly to prevent uneven braking.
6. Test the Brakes
Once all the brakes have been adjusted, lower the trailer back to the ground and take it for a test drive. Apply the brakes at various speeds to ensure that the trailer brakes engage smoothly and evenly. If you notice any pulling or uneven braking, you may need to make further adjustments.
When to Adjust Electric Trailer Brakes
Electric trailer brakes should be checked and adjusted at regular intervals, especially if you tow frequently or carry heavy loads. Here are some general guidelines for when to adjust your brakes:
- Before Long Trips: It’s always a good idea to check and adjust your trailer brakes before embarking on a long towing trip.
- After Heavy Use: If you’ve recently towed your trailer over long distances or on mountainous terrain, check the brakes for any signs of wear or misalignment.
- Annually: Even if you don’t tow your trailer frequently, it’s still important to inspect and adjust the brakes at least once a year to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Common Issues with Electric Trailer Brakes
Adjusting your electric trailer brakes can help resolve many common issues, but it’s important to be aware of other potential problems that may arise with electric brakes. Here are a few issues to keep an eye on:
- Corrosion: Over time, the brake components can corrode, especially if exposed to water or road salt. Corrosion can cause the brake shoes to stick or prevent the brakes from functioning correctly.
- Wiring Issues: Electric trailer brakes rely on a wiring system to transmit the signal from the brake controller to the brakes. If there are any issues with the wiring, such as loose connections or damaged wires, the brakes may not engage properly.
- Worn Brake Shoes: If the brake shoes are worn down too much, adjusting the brakes won’t be effective. In this case, the brake shoes will need to be replaced.
Conclusion
So, can you adjust electric trailer brakes? Absolutely, and doing so is essential to maintaining safe and effective braking performance. Regular adjustments ensure that the brake shoes are correctly aligned and engaging the drums properly. By following the steps outlined above, you can keep your trailer brakes in top condition and enjoy a safer towing experience. Always remember to inspect and adjust your brakes regularly, and consult a professional if you encounter any issues that require further attention.