How To Troubleshoot A Trailer Hub Overheating

Question:

I installed 1 axle with a complete titan disk brake replacement kit last year. This spring on short trips to a local lake I noticed the hubs getting hot. I thought is was because I only did one axle on my 5500lbs boat trailer so I added a brakes to the second axle this spring. My problem is one of the old hubs is getting much hotter than the other 3. I took the pins out and buffed them and relubed on both the calipers I installed last year. Still the 1 hub is getting to hot to touch. I also installed new bearings this spring. Any suggestions?

asked by: Kevin H

Expert Reply:

There can be a few different causes for excess heat on a trailer hub assembly. The first thing I would do is to ensure the bearings are installed correctly with the proper amount of lubrication. The next thing you will want to check is that the castle nut is not torqued down in excess of what the manufacturer recommends.

The last thing that could be causing your hub assembly to overheat is extensive contact between the rotor and brake caliper. To correct the issue, you will want to remove the caliper and rotor. Once removed, take the pads out from the caliper and depress the cylinder using a c-clamp. Inspect the outer rubber seal on the cylinder to ensure their is not any damage or tears. After you have done so, reinstall the caliper and bleed the brakes on your trailer. Spin the hub while the rotor is attached a few times to ensure they are not sticking. If the pad is still rubbing on the rotor when depressed, you may either have a bad caliper or the brake flange was mounted incorrectly.

expert reply by: Conner L