Grinding Noise With Dexter 023-469-00 Trailer Brakes

Question:

I recently bought my first pop-up trailer, new and unused other than shipping and any movement from the dealer and had a whirlwind western states tour for my maiden voyage. Everything went quite well. However, upon returning to my home and around my neighborhood I heard my right trailer wheel making a horrible grinding noise. I had also noticed that my gas mileage was noticeably less than previously on my last leg toward home. Ive watch a few videos of people doing bearing repacks or electric brake replacement and seen that more than once after its all said and done, their new wheels are also making a grinding noise. Consider this video from etrailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVN57gUxUpI If you watch it at approx. 111inch you can hear the newly assembled brakes/drum making a grinding noise. Is this supposed to be normal? My wheel wasnt making this noise at first. It doesnt turn without noticeable friction. Upon inspection nothing seems terribly out of place, no broken spring or such. There was quite a bit of brake dust. Any thoughts on how to proceed? If I replace the Dexter Never Adjust brakes ought I also to replace the other side, which is not making any grinding noise at all? Lastly, do you have a suggestion for a grease solvent while I clean the bearings since I have the whole thing disassembled anyway? If it helps, the sticker on my drum brake gives this #: 023-469-00 RIGHT HAND

asked by: Giordano C

Expert Reply:

In regards to replacing electric trailer brake assemblies, it is best to do so in pairs that way you have even pad wear on each side. In many cases, they are only sold as a pair. The correct replacement for 023-469-00 is the Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brake Kit part # 23-468-469. If you wanted to replace the bearings and seals as well then you will need Bearing Kit for #84 Spindle part # BK2-100.

The grinding noise could be caused by a broken spring, improper brake adjustment, over/under tightened castle nut etc. so it's best to check everything over. I recommend using brake cleaner to clean the old parts.

expert reply by: Conner L