Beatrice Lang
Electric trailer brakes are an essential safety feature for any trailer, and regular servicing is necessary to ensure they remain in good working order. This guide will cover the steps for servicing 12x2 electric trailer brakes, including the tools and parts required, the process for adjusting and replacing brake components, and the recommended procedures for testing and maintaining the brakes. Whether you're a seasoned trailer owner or a novice, understanding how to service your electric trailer brakes can help you avoid costly repairs and stay safe on the road.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Standard Burning Procedure | 1. Turn the trailer brake control gain to the maximum level. 2. Drive at speeds up to 40 mph. 3. Adjust the brake controller slide mechanism to apply 8 to 10 volts to the trailer brakes, slowing the tow vehicle to 20 or 25 mph. 4. Release the slide mechanism. 5. Continue driving and apply the brake controller at one-mile intervals. |
| Parts Needed | Wiring, connectors, zip-ties, wire clips, electrical tape, ground screws, 7-way connector, breakaway kits, brake controller |
| Hub Replacement | 1. Remove the axle nut. 2. Remove the nuts fastening the backing plate assembly. 3. Peel back the loom and tape from the wires. 4. Cut the wires and slide the backing plate assembly off the axle spindle. 5. Install a seal sleeve on the axle shaft if it is rusty or rough. 6. Clean the wheel side of the new backing plate flange. 7. Set the new backing plate on the axle with the electro-magnet at the six o'clock position, ensuring the correct left and right orientation. 8. Connect the electro-magnet wires to the trailer's wire harness. 9. Secure the wires with a zip tie to the torsion arm. 10. Clean the new drum/wheel hub with brake cleaner. 11. Set the hub on a work surface with the opening facing up and insert a bearing. 12. Press a new seal into the hub. |
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What You'll Learn
Replacing the complete assembly
When replacing the complete assembly of your 12"x2" electric trailer brakes, there are several important steps to follow to ensure a safe and effective replacement. Firstly, it is crucial to have the right tools and materials. You will need equipment to lift and securely support your trailer, ensuring that they are rated for the weight of your trailer for safety. An impact wrench or a sturdy lug wrench will be needed to remove the wheels and access the brakes. A comprehensive socket set is also essential for removing and securing various nuts and bolts during the replacement process.
Before beginning the replacement, it is important to inspect the old brake drum assembly for any signs of wear, such as deep grooves or scoring on the drum surface. Decide if the drum needs to be replaced or if it can simply be resurfaced. Remove the old brake shoes, springs, and any other worn components. Compare these old parts with the new ones to ensure a correct match, then proceed to install the new components, making sure everything is positioned and secured correctly.
After installing the new brake components, reattach the brake drum. Adjust the brakes according to the manufacturer's instructions. For drum brakes, this typically involves adjusting the tension so that the brake shoes are close to the drum without dragging. It is crucial to test the new brakes to ensure they are functioning correctly.
In addition to the mechanical aspects, you will also need to address the electrical components. Run wiring from the front of the trailer to the trailer brakes to carry electric power to them. You may require connectors, zip ties, wire clips, electrical tape, and ground screws. Convert your trailer connector to a 7-way connection to include a circuit for electric brakes. Each brake assembly should have two wires coming out of the back. Attach one wire to the trailer for the ground, and the other wire will receive power. Run a 10-gauge wire (blue insulation) from the front of the trailer to one of the trailer brakes as the power wire. Connect the power wire to the non-grounded wire on one of the brakes, then run another wire from this brake to the brake on the other side of the axle.
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Removing the old brake components
To remove old electric trailer brake components, you will first need to lift and securely support your trailer. Make sure the equipment you use is rated for the weight of your trailer to ensure safety while you work underneath. Use a lug wrench or an impact wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts, then pull the wheels off. Keep the lug nuts in a safe place so you don't lose them. Next, remove the hubcap (if present) and any other components blocking access to the brake drum. This might include cotter pins and retaining nuts. Once these are removed, you can pull the drum off, exposing the brake components inside.
Before proceeding with replacing anything, inspect the brake drum assembly for signs of wear, such as deep grooves or scoring on the drum surface. This is a help you decide whether the drum needs replacing or if it can be resurfaced. Carefully remove the old brake shoes, pads (if you have disc brakes), springs, and any other worn components. Use a mallet to remove the initial grease and dust trap, and wire cutters to cut and remove the old magnet wires.
If your trailer has no brake mounting flanges, you have two options: replace the axle with a properly rated one that already has brake flanges welded in place, or purchase brake flanges and have a qualified welder weld them to the axle. When a brake mounting flange is welded to an axle, it must be welded square and concentric, usually requiring a jig to hold both parts in position.
Finally, you will need to run wiring from the front of your trailer to your trailer brakes to carry electric power to them. In addition to wire, you may need connectors, zip ties, wire clips, electrical tape, and ground screws. You'll also have to convert your trailer connector to a 7-way that includes a circuit for electric brakes.
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Cleaning the flange
To clean the flange of your 12"x2" electric trailer brakes, follow these steps:
First, locate the brake mounting flange on your trailer's axle. The flange is attached behind the existing hub assembly on each side of the axle. If your axle does not have brake mounting flanges, you have two options: replace the axle with one that has the appropriate brake flanges welded in place, or purchase brake flanges and hire a qualified welder to weld them to your axle.
Once you have located or installed the brake mounting flange, you can begin the cleaning process. Start by inspecting the flange for any debris, grease, or buildup that may have accumulated. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the flange and remove any visible dirt or grime. It is important to ensure that the flange is free of any substances that could interfere with the brake's performance.
If the flange is particularly dirty or greasy, you may need to use a mild degreaser or cleaning solution to cut through the buildup. Apply the degreaser to a cloth and gently wipe down the flange, being careful to avoid getting any cleaning solution on other components. You may need to use a small brush or cotton swab to reach any tight spaces or crevices.
After cleaning, ensure that the flange is thoroughly dried. Use a clean, absorbent cloth to wipe away any remaining moisture. It is important to ensure that the flange is completely dry before proceeding with any further maintenance or reassembly.
Once the flange is clean and dry, inspect it for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. If the flange shows significant signs of wear or damage, it may need to be replaced. A properly maintained and cleaned flange is crucial to ensuring the safe and effective operation of your electric trailer brakes.
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Connecting the wires
Firstly, you will need to run wiring from the front of your trailer to the trailer brakes. This wiring will carry electric power to the brakes, enabling their operation. Along with the wire itself, you may require connectors, zip ties, wire clips, electrical tape, and ground screws. These additional items will help you neatly secure the wiring and protect it from any potential damage.
Each brake assembly should have two wires protruding from the back. Attach one of these wires to the trailer to establish a ground connection. The remaining wire will be used for receiving power. It is important to note that the specific wire used for each purpose is not significant; either wire can be used for grounding or powering.
As a best practice, utilise a 10-gauge wire, which is typically identified by its blue insulation, as your power wire. This wire should be connected to the non-grounded wire on one of the brakes. From this initial connection point, you can then run another wire to the brake situated on the opposite side of the axle. In scenarios where you have more than two brakes, simply replicate this process, ensuring power is distributed to all of them.
To physically connect the wires, you can use butt and quick-splice connectors. These connectors facilitate a secure and efficient joining of the wires. Additionally, wrapping the connections with electrical tape provides an extra layer of protection, helping to keep water and moisture out.
Finally, don't forget to replace the connector at the front of your trailer with a 7-way connector. This type of connector includes a dedicated circuit for supplying power to the brakes, which is essential for their operation.
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Installing the new brake components
To install new electric trailer brake components, you will need to follow a series of steps to ensure proper functionality and safety. Here is a detailed guide on installing the new brake components:
Firstly, it is important to clean the wheel side of the backing plate flange using an air-powered wire wheel or a sturdy wire brush. This step will remove any rust or debris, ensuring a smooth surface for the new components. Once cleaned, set the new backing plate on the axle, positioning the electro-magnet at the six o'clock position. It is crucial to ensure that the left and right backing plates are installed on the correct sides of the trailer, as they are directional.
The next step is to connect the wires from the electro-magnet to the trailer's wire harness. Soldering provides the best connection, but butt connectors can also be used. To protect the connection from the elements, use heat shrink tubes or quality electrical tape. Secure the wires with a zip tie to the torsion arm and reinstall the loom over the wires for added protection.
Now, it's time to focus on the drum or wheel hub. Clean it thoroughly with brake cleaner to eliminate any manufacturing oil or corrosion inhibitor. Place the hub on a sturdy work surface with the opening facing upwards. Insert a bearing into the hub, ensuring the tapered end is pointing down towards the work surface. Use a suitable tool, such as a seal driver or a socket, to press a new seal into the hub securely.
Finally, with the new components in place, it's important to perform a thorough inspection and secure any hardware. Use a large wrench or ratchet to tighten mounting nuts and ensure they are secure. This process will help prevent any loose parts from causing issues during operation.
By following these steps, you can effectively install new electric trailer brake components, ensuring the safety and reliability of your trailer's braking system.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need to know the axle capacity, wheel bolt pattern, spindle type, and type of brake assembly. You will also need to know the distance between your trailer's springs and the distance between the hub faces.
Use an air-powered wire wheel or a wire brush to clean chunks of rust and debris from the wheel side of the backing plate flange.
Solder the wires together for the best connection, or use butt connectors. Heat shrink tubes provide a good, weather-tight seal over the connection, but electrical tape will also work.
