Beatrice Lang
Dexter electric trailer brakes can be tested in a number of ways. One of the easiest things to test is the actuator, which can be done using only a car battery. The Dexter Brakerite EHB Actuator can also be tested. The Dexter Nev-R-Adjust electric trailer brakes can be manually adjusted using a tool with a fine edge, such as a flat-head screwdriver. It is also important to check the magnets for wear and test them with a meter. To test the brake magnets with an ammeter, connect the ammeter between the positive battery terminal of a separate battery and one of the magnet wires.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dexter brake design | Operate at extremely high temperatures during hard braking |
| Dexter Axle recommendation | Do not use brakes on small touring trailers designed for motorcycles |
| Dexter brake kit | K71-127-00 |
| Dexter brake wiring | Wired in parallel, not in series |
| Dexter Axle bearing repack | Use grease fittings to push in new grease and push out old grease |
| Dexter Nev-R-Adjust electric trailer brakes | Can be manually adjusted |
| Dexter brake kit | #K23-463-00 |
| Dexter brake kit | #AKEBRK-35L-SA |
| Dexter brake kit | #KOD67VR |
| Dexter brake kit | #AKHD-865-8-EZ-K |
| Dexter brake kit | #23-180-181 |
| Dexter brake kit | #AKBRKR-M12 |
| Dexter brake kit | #BP01-225 |
| Dexter brake testing | Check the magnets for wear, test with a meter |
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What You'll Learn
Check for mechanical issues
Dexter electric trailer brakes are designed to operate at high temperatures. However, if the brakes are malfunctioning, they may run excessively hot, which can be indicated by smoking brakes or the paint burning off the brake drum. Mechanical issues can often be identified by visible signs, such as bent or broken parts, worn-out linings or magnets, seized lever arms or shoes, and scored drums.
To check for mechanical issues, start by inspecting the brake assembly for any visible damage or abnormal wear. Look for signs such as bent or broken components, including the lever arms and shoes. Check the linings for wear; Dexter recommends replacing brake pads when they reach 1/16" thickness. If the linings are worn, the brakes may need to be adjusted manually to move the linings closer to the drum. Refer to the OPERATION MAINTENANCE SERVICE MANUAL for specific instructions on brake adjustment.
Additionally, inspect the magnets for any signs of wear or damage. If the windings are visible through the friction surface, the magnets will need to be replaced. It is important to note that after replacing brake shoes and magnets, there will be a decrease in braking performance until the components have worn into the drum. This break-in process may require numerous stops to restore normal braking performance.
Another aspect to consider is the actuation lever and the wiring. Ensure that the actuation lever is curved around the front side of the spindle. Verify that the wires exit the brake to the backside of the assembly when installed on the trailer. Also, check that the wires are connected correctly, with one wire connected to power and the other to a ground. It is recommended to run a common ground from the trailer plug to the brake magnets, rather than grounding each brake individually to the trailer frame or structure.
If you suspect a malfunction with the electric brake controller, you can test it by supplying full amperage to the brakes on an unloaded trailer. This may cause the brakes to lock up if functioning properly. Additionally, ensure that the brakes are adjusted correctly to compensate for lining and drum wear. Some brakes have automatic adjusters, while others require manual adjustment.
By following these steps and inspecting the various components of the Dexter electric trailer brakes, you can effectively check for mechanical issues and ensure the proper functioning of your braking system.
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Test the actuator
If your Dexter electric trailer brakes are not functioning correctly, one of the first things you should do is test the actuator. The actuation lever should curve around the front side of the spindle, with the wires exiting the brake to the backside of the assembly.
To test your Dexter electric trailer brake actuator, you will need to use a car battery. It is important that you disconnect the trailer before performing this test. You should then connect an ammeter between the positive battery terminal of the car battery and one of the magnet wires. Next, connect the other magnet wire to the negative battery terminal. If the amperage is greater than the specified amount, the magnet will need to be replaced. If the reading is less than the specified amount, the leads are bad, and the magnet should be replaced.
You can also test for abnormal wear on the magnets by inspecting them for any signs of damage. If the windings are showing through the friction surface of the magnet, this is a sign that they need to be replaced.
Dexter Nev-R-Adjust electric trailer brakes can be manually adjusted using a tool with a fine edge, such as a flat-head screwdriver. It is important to note that the initial manual adjustment may take a few braking attempts, but automatic adjustment will occur after this.
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Check the brake magnet
To check the brake magnet on Dexter electric trailer brakes, you should look for any visible signs of wear and tear on the magnet, such as exposed windings. If there are any visible signs of damage, the magnet will need to be replaced. However, it's important to note that magnets can also fail without showing any visible signs of wear. In this case, you will need to use a multimeter to test the magnet for continuity. This will involve connecting the multimeter to the magnet and measuring the resistance or continuity. If the magnet does not show continuity, it will need to be replaced.
It's important to check the brake magnets on Dexter electric trailer brakes regularly, as worn or damaged magnets can cause a decrease in braking performance. After replacing the brake magnets, you will need to allow for a break-in period to wear into the drum and finish the burnishing process. This may take more than 100 stops with stops of 20 mph decreases in speed.
Additionally, when inspecting the brake magnets, it is recommended to check for other mechanical issues, such as bent or broken parts, worn-out linings or magnets, seized lever arms or shoes, and scored drums. A voltmeter and ammeter are essential tools for proper troubleshooting of electric brakes.
It is also important to note that Dexter Axle does not recommend the use of brakes on small touring trailers designed to be pulled by motorcycles. The imbalance of trailer brakes can cause the rider to lose control. In the case of electric brakes, a non-level condition can result in unexpected brake actuation when the trailer encounters large bumps due to the mass of the magnet inside the brake.
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Adjust the brakes
Adjusting Dexter electric trailer brakes can be done in several ways, depending on the type of brakes you have. Firstly, you need to determine whether your brakes are manual or self-adjusting. If you have a self-adjusting brake assembly, you will see the adjuster cable extending across the brake assembly once you remove the hub/drum.
If you have manual brakes, you can adjust them using a tool with a fine edge, such as a flat-head screwdriver. You will need to turn the star wheel adjuster until the wheel won't turn, and then back it off until it drags slightly. It is important to note that you should not have too much drag, as this can cause excessive heat build-up.
For self-adjusting brakes, the process is a bit different. After the initial installation, these brakes will adjust themselves as you drive. However, it is recommended to perform an initial adjustment to ensure they are working correctly. You can do this by applying the brakes 20-30 times from a speed of 40 mph, slowing to 20 mph, and allowing the brakes to cool between applications. This process helps the new brake shoes to seat properly in the drum surface.
Additionally, it is important to inspect your brakes regularly, as issues with the shoes, magnets, or other components can affect the performance of your brakes. If you notice any problems, you may need to order new assemblies or replace individual parts.
It is worth noting that some sources mention the Dexter Nev-R-Adjust electric trailer brakes, which are designed to be self-adjusting. However, even these brakes may occasionally need manual adjustment due to issues like leaking grease seals or broken parts. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address any potential problems with your trailer brakes.
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Check for wear and tear
When checking for wear and tear on Dexter electric trailer brakes, it is important to inspect the magnets for any signs of abnormal wear. If the windings are visible through the friction surface of the magnet, this indicates that the magnets need to be replaced. However, it is important to note that magnets can also fail without exhibiting any visible signs of deterioration.
To further assess the condition of the magnets, a multimeter can be used to test the trailer brake wiring between the brake controller and the brake magnet. Set the multimeter to Ohms, and place the negative probe on one of the brake magnet wires, and the positive probe on the other wire. If the multimeter reading falls outside the specified resistance range for your brake magnet size, it indicates a faulty brake magnet that requires replacement.
In addition to inspecting the magnets, other components of the braking system should be examined for wear and tear. This includes checking the brake linings, drums, and shoes for any signs of damage or excessive wear. Dexter recommends maintaining a minimum brake lining thickness of 1/16 inch. If the linings are worn, they may need to be replaced or adjusted to compensate for the wear and ensure proper braking performance.
Moreover, the actuation lever and wires should be inspected. The actuation lever should curve around the front side of the spindle. Wires should exit the brake to the backside of the assembly when installed on the trailer. Worn-out wires or improper wiring configurations can lead to intermittent brake issues or reduced braking performance.
It is also important to note that Dexter electric trailer brakes are designed to operate at extremely high temperatures during hard braking. However, if a brake is malfunctioning and running excessively hot, it may be indicated by smoking brakes or paint burning off the brake drum. In such cases, further inspection and necessary repairs should be performed.
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Frequently asked questions
First, check the magnets for abnormal wear or if the windings are beginning to show through the friction surface of the magnet. If this is the case, the magnets will need to be replaced. To further test your magnets, first, make sure the trailer is not connected. If it is, you run the risk of shorting out the brake controller or various other electrical components. To test the brake magnets with an ammeter, connect the ammeter between the positive battery terminal of a separate battery and one of the magnet wires. Then, connect the other magnet wire to the negative battery terminal. Check the amperage, and if it is greater than the specified amount, replace the magnet. If the reading is less than the specified amount, the leads are bad and the magnet should be replaced.
If your disc brake system isn't functioning correctly, one of the easiest things to test is your actuator. Performance Trailer Braking has a video showing how to test your Dexter Brakerite electric over hydraulic actuator using only a car battery.
Dexter brakes are designed to operate at extremely high temperatures during hard braking applications. This heat is noticeable on the hub and drums and is normally expected. If a brake is malfunctioning and running excessively hot, this can be noticed by smoking brakes or the paint burning off the brake drum.
