How to adjust electric trailer brakes

How to adjust electric trailer brakes? This is something that is overlooked even more than packing wheel bearings. Here at Peak Mtn Camps it is quite obvious as we work on just about every type of trailer who services their trailers and who doesn't. After adjusting the brakes on this camp the customer reported how well the trailer now brakes as well as how he no longer has to have his brake controller turned up as high. Definitely a easy project that can be done by anyone who has a jack and a flatblade screwdriver. Here is a step by step process of how this adjustment is made.

Step 1: Jack up the trailer
Begin by chocking the trailer wheels and jacking up one side of your trailer. Remember to place the jack under the trailer frame, not the axle.

Raise the jack until the wheel is able to spin freely. Then, secure a jack stand under the frame for additional support.

Jack Up Trailer Wheel
Step 2: Remove the brake access cover
Most trailers have a cover, cap or plug that needs to be removed to access the trailer brakes. There may be one or multiple covers. They are typically made from plastic or rubber and can be pried out with a flathead screwdriver.

Carefully remove the cover to access the brake chamber and adjustment wheel.


Step 3: Tighten the adjustment wheel
Using a brake spoon, brake adjustment tool or flathead screwdriver, turn the star wheel adjuster inside the brake chamber. The adjuster is typically located below the brake drum. Push down on the brake spoon handle so the adjuster wheel is pried upward. This will tighten the brake pads or shoes.

Turn the wheel one click at a time. Spin the tire between each click to make sure it spins freely.


Step 4: Stop when the tire begins to drag
Once the trailer tire becomes difficult to turn, stop tightening the adjuster. Pry upward on the adjustment tool to loosen the adjuster wheel if necessary.

The tire should spin freely but still have a slight scraping sound or slight drag, indicating that the trailer brake pads are properly engaged.


Step 5: Torque and repeat on the other side
Replace the cover on the trailer brake access point. At this time, it is also a good idea to check the torque on your trailer tire nuts. Follow a star pattern, and make sure each one is torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Then, remove the jack stand and safely lower the trailer. Finally, repeat this process on the other side.
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