Replacing the Trailer Drum Brakes

Some of larger trailers in service today have drum brakes installed. They provide sufficient stopping power for the trailer if the towing vehicle also decelerates. However, the long drives and stops may take their toll on the trailer and the brake system – as such, you need to get to work on replacing them right away.

The first thing to do is to raise the trailer on jack stands and remove all wheels. Once they are off, start using a hammer to gradually shake the drum loose from the assembly and use the drum brake spring tool to remove the hold-down spring for now. Needle-nose pliers are to be used in removing the return springs, but no tools are required in taking off the adjuster-level springs from the bottom of the primary shoe. The primary and secondary pads can then be removed and replaced.

In setting up the brake’s replacement pads, put in the primary pad on the adjuster and the notch of the wheel cylinder, then reattach the return and adjuster springs. Repeat the process on the secondary pad. You can then lock in the hold-down spring and cap before placing the drum on the pads and setting the entire assembly back on the shaft.  

How to Choose the Correct Boat Trailer Winch

A boat trailer winch is a device used to load and unload boats to and off trailers. Since a winch is integral in keeping a boat safe, the appropriate boat trailer winch for your particular boat needs to be selected. Here are some tips to consider:

Size matters

The weight of the boat will determine the required winch capacities. Ideally, the boat to winch capacity ratio should be 2:1. For instance, a 2,000-lb boat would generally need a winch with a 1,000-lb capacity.

Factor in the trailer factors

Boat trailers come in different shapes and with varying features. Generally, a trailer with a steeper incline or a long winching distance requires winches with heavier capacities. Same goes for wooden or carpeted bunks. Conversely, trailers with good rollers, short winching distances or gentler slopes will require bearings with less capacities.

Determine the winch material's quality

Winches are fabricated from various materials. Stainless steel and carbon steel would be the most durable. Other common makeups of winches are aluminum and bronze. Of those two, bronze is preferable for being more weather-resistant.

Take the easy ways out

Ease and comfort in winch usage should be prioritized, too. Reliable manufacturers promote ergonomic grips, permanently lubricated bearings and adjustable handles for varying speed needs. Warranties can also be considered to get your money's worth. Go for products with instruction manuals for comprehensive utilization guidance.

The Nitty-Gritty: Electric Trailer Brake Care

To keep your electric trailer brakes from breaking down, it’s critical that you look after the parts meticulously. This process rules out any dangers that you may face in the future, and ensures you that your equipment is running alright.

Here are some tips to make your trailer brake parts work more efficiently and longer:

• Schedule a regular inspection and service, preferably annually. Inspection intervals may also depend on how often you use your trailer. The more you use it, the more often you should look over it.
• Replace the brake shoes if:

The lining is 1/16^th inch thick or less.

The linings are drenched with grease or oil.

The linings are impaired or scraped.

The lining detaches from the brake shoes.

• Check out the magnet arm for any unfastened parts, and the springs (shoe return, mounting, adjuster) for any dislocations. If there are signs of uneven wear, change them into new ones. You can also call reliable professionals who can help you find and replace deteriorated parts.
• Replace all the same items of the same axle even if only one side needs to be replaced. Keeping all components at the same age reduces risk of uneven wear and tear.
• Spruce them up with a soft, damp cloth or brush to eliminate dust particles which can get in the way. Don’t forget to apply a small dab of white lithium grease to lubricate the shoe on the backing plate.

How Trailer Brakes Contribute to Towing Safety

The biggest risk in towing a trailer is having it crash onto the back of your car or truck. Your car only has control over its own brakes. When your car slows down or stops, it is highly probable that the trailer will keep its momentum, resulting in a rear-end collision. This is why you need to install trailer brakes.

The type of brakes you need depends on what kind of trailer you have. Boat trailers, for example, need surge brakes, which feature a self-contained hydraulic system. When you decelerate, the trailer coupler activates the system by pushing the hitch ball. Electronic brakes, on the other hand, work best for horse or travel trailers and car haulers because they use a control unit within your car. When the unit senses that you are slowing down, it applies the trailer brakes.

Before using your trailer, make sure your braking system is in proper working condition by checking all of its components. This will allow you to determine any damage in the brake parts before it causes any accidents. If you do find a damaged part, fix it immediately so you can be sure that your brakes will not damage your vehicle. Ensuring that everything is in order will give you peace of mind that you can use your trailer without incident at the soonest possible time.