Troubleshooting Trailer Wheel That Locks with Light Brake Application

Question:

I purchased my first travel trailer last year in August. It has been great. However, this year on of my wheels appears to be locking up when I gently apply the breaks. The other three seem to be fine. I would like to look at it, but I have never dealt with trailer brakes and Im not sure what I should be looking for. Any idea why only one wheel would be locking up and none of the others. Ive only been camping less than a dozen times and all in-state, so it doesnt have a lot of miles.

asked by: Michael D

Expert Reply:

Most likely the trailer brake assembly is out of adjustment. If you jack up that side of the trailer you should be able to turn the wheel by hand and feel a light drag as you do so. It's very possible yours is too tight and needs to be loosened. I have linked you to a video showing how to adjust brake assemblies, click the link and fast forward to the 1:50 mark. If the assemblies are in adjustment it's more than likely you have a mechanical problem on them and you'd have to take the hub off and see if you can find the issue and replace as needed.

I attached a help article on adding brakes to a trailer that would have some info that you'd be able to use as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C