Brake Maintentance

[tknick]

I was recently setting up my prodigy brake controller and attempting to get the trailer brakes to lock up as the instructions say to do.  Even at the highest setting, I could not get the trailer brakes to lock up.  I read in the dexter manual that the brakes need adjusting. While attempting this, I found that the hub will turn about 350 degrees without resistance, but the last 10 degrees will stop the free wheeling hub.  I tried adjusting the brake, but it did not solve the problem.  The brake still works and stopping, even during test panic stops from 35/40 mph does not seem affected.

I know something is wrong, but don't know what.  Is it the magnet, the brake shoes, or the drum?  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.  BTW, adjusting the brakes through that tiny little slot on the backside of the hub is a huge pain in the butt!  This was only on the right side hub.  I didn't get to the left side because I was a bit discouraged by this.

I have seen the variety of parts available from dexter ranging from complete hub and brake assemblies to individual parts and rebuild kits.  I didn't take the hub off, only the wheel.  Would removing the hub be the best way to diagnose the problem?  And if so, will it be readliy apparent or should I just take it to the dealer and let them deal with it?  I'd rather not spend $300 or $400 for parts/labor for something that I could have done myself for a couple hundred dollars and a little elbow grease.

thanks
Travis

[AustinBoston]

I'm shooting from the hip here, but my guess would be that the drum(s) have become out of round.  IF that is the case, AND the are only slightly out of round, then it may be possible to turn them so that they are back in spec...but I'm just shooting from the hip on this, no expert.

As far as lock up is concerned... 1) Some heavy trailers may not lock the brakes.  2) Electric brakes seem to have a "warm up" period.  If you really want to get the controller right, don't adjust it until you've driven at least ten miles.

Austin

[tknick]

thanks Austin.  sounds like a complete inspection/maintenance/overhaul is going to be scheduled for a weekend a little sooner than later.  No excuse not to repack those bearing now......

travis