How to Loosen Braking Force On a Self Adjusting Brake Assembly That is Locking Up

Question:

I just replaced all 6 wheels on my fifth wheel with your new etrailer brand self adjusting drum brake assemblies. All is working well, except the middle wheel on the right side is locking up during hard braking. My question is for the right side brakes, which way do I turn the star wheel to back the shoes off a bit? Thanks for the help.

asked by: Joe C

Expert Reply:

On the Self-Adjusting Trailer Brakes # AKEBRK-7-SA you will need to turn the star wheel down toward the ground on either the left or right side brake assembly. It will be difficult as there is a tension spring that wants to prevent the adjuster wheel from loosening. You may be better to remove the hub and back off the adjustment as you will be able to better access the spring to allow you to reverse the adjuster wheel.

I have included an image that shows the adjuster wheel with the tension spring that prevents the wheel from turning in reverse.

expert reply by: Bud M