How to Adjust the Brakes on Camper Trailers

Most camping trailers utilize drum brakes that are electrically actuated by a controller in the tow vehicle. When the brake pedal in the tow vehicle is depressed, the brake controller applies the trailer brakes automatically. In order for the brakes to operate at maximum efficiency, it is imperative that the brakes be adjusted properly. Trailer brakes that grab, cause the tires to skid, or do not work at all could be the result of poor adjustment.

Things You'll Need

• 2 wheel chocks
• Hydraulic or scissor jack
• Flat blade screwdriver

Instructions

1. Work on one wheel at a time. Chock the tires on the opposite side of the trailer you will be working on first.

2. Place a hydraulic or scissor jack under the rear axle within eight inches of the brake backing plate of the wheel you wish to raise first. Raise the jack until the tire is approximately one inch off the ground.

3. Locate the rubber access plug on the brake backing plate and pry it out with a flat blade screwdriver. Place the plug aside.

4. Insert a flat blade screwdriver into the access hole where the rubber plug was removed until it comes into contact with the brake adjustment star wheel. Spin the tire with one hand in a forward direction while rotating the star wheel with the flat blade screwdriver with the other hand in a clockwise direction, just until braking pressure is felt on the tire.

5. Continue spinning the tire in a forward direction while rotating the star adjustment wheel in a counterclockwise direction, one click at a time, with the flat blade screwdriver until the tire turns with slight effort.

6. Remove the screwdriver from the access hole and push the rubber plug back into place until it is fully seated. Lower the hydraulic jack until the tire is on the ground.

7. Repeat entire procedure for all remaining trailer wheels.

References

• Tiedown.com: Electric Drum Brake Installation