Trystan Casey
Self-adjusting electric trailer brakes are a type of braking system used in travel trailers and fifth wheels. They are designed to automatically adjust themselves as needed to ensure optimal performance. Forward Self-Adjusting (FSA) brakes, for example, can adjust themselves while the vehicle is moving forward or backward. This is in contrast to manual brakes, which require manual adjustment via a star wheel adjuster or similar tool. Self-adjusting brakes are known for their reliability and low cost, but they may not last as long as manually adjusted brakes due to their design. They are also initially more expensive than manual brakes, but they can save time and effort on maintenance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Types | Forward Self Adjusting (FSA) and Manual Adjusting |
| Functionality | Self-adjusting brakes can adjust themselves as needed to be in the optimum position. |
| Maintenance | Self-adjusting brakes require less maintenance than manual brakes. |
| Durability | Self-adjusting brakes may not last as long as manual brakes due to being used at their maximum potential. |
| Performance | Self-adjusting brakes perform at their best and provide good braking performance. |
| Installation | Self-adjusting brakes are easy to install and come ready to bolt on and wire up. |
| Adjustment | Self-adjusting brakes require an initial manual adjustment and periodic adjustments every 3,000 miles or 3 months. |
| Cost | Self-adjusting brakes may have higher maintenance costs if adjusted by a professional. |
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What You'll Learn
Forward Self-Adjusting (FSA) vs Manual Adjusting
Forward Self-Adjusting (FSA) and Manual Adjusting are the two main types of electric brake assemblies for axles 7K and below. Electric trailer brakes use electrical signals, electromagnets, and brake pads to help the trailer stop while towing. The built-in electromagnets draw power from the vehicle to squeeze the brake pads.
Forward self-adjusting brakes will adjust themselves as needed to be in the optimum position. This means they are automatically adjusted to perform at their best. They have a wire that runs from about 9 o'clock to 1 o'clock and a straight spring wrapped around the adjuster. While this reduces the required maintenance, it also means they may not last as long as manually adjusted brakes. This is because manually adjusted brakes, if not adjusted regularly, are not being used to their full potential and the shoes wear slower.
Manual brakes, on the other hand, must be adjusted manually via the star adjuster on the back side of the brake assembly as needed. They will not have a wire running across the inside of the assembly and will have a curved spring below the adjuster. They should be adjusted every 3,000 miles or 3 months to ensure safe towing. To adjust manual trailer brakes, use a trailer brake spoon, brake adjustment tool, or flathead screwdriver to turn the star wheel adjuster inside the brake chamber. The adjuster is typically located below the brake drum. Push down on the brake spoon handle to tighten or pry upward to loosen the brake pads.
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Installation and testing
Forward Self-Adjusting (FSA) brakes are designed to automatically adjust themselves as needed to be in the optimum position. This is in contrast to manual brakes, which require manual adjustment.
To install self-adjusting electric trailer brakes, it is recommended to refer to the Electric Brakes Owner's and Service Manual. The installation process involves greasing the bearings, and the procedure should be manageable for trailer owners who are familiar with brake maintenance.
The key to getting the self-adjusters to work properly is to perform an initial manual adjustment during the installation. This involves jacking up the trailer, accessing the brakes, and using a trailer brake spoon, brake adjustment tool, or flathead screwdriver to turn the star wheel adjuster inside the brake chamber. The adjuster is typically located below the brake drum, and pushing down on the brake spoon handle will tighten the brake pads or shoes. Turn the wheel one click at a time, spinning the tire between each click to ensure it spins freely. Once the trailer tire becomes difficult to turn, stop tightening the adjuster.
To loosen the adjuster wheel, pry upward on the adjustment tool. The tire should spin freely but still have a slight scraping sound, indicating that the trailer brake pads are properly engaged. Replace the cover on the trailer brake access point, and check the torque on your trailer tire nuts, following a star pattern and ensuring each one is torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.
After installation, it is important to test the effectiveness of the self-adjusting brakes. Lippert's Forward Self-Adjusting RV Brakes, for example, were tested on a 33-foot travel trailer. The test trailer was equipped with LCI axles, rated at 5,200 pounds, and fitted with 12-by-2-inch electric drum brakes.
It is recommended to check and adjust electric trailer brakes every 3,000 miles or 3 months to ensure safe towing.
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Maintenance
Self-adjusting electric trailer brakes are a type of brake assembly that automatically adjusts to perform at their best. They differ from manual brakes, which require manual adjustments. While self-adjusting brakes offer convenience, they may not last as long as manual brakes due to their optimal usage.
Regular Inspections
It is recommended to have self-adjusting electric trailer brakes inspected by a dealer or qualified technician at regular intervals, typically every other year or according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This inspection ensures that the brakes are in optimal condition and can identify any potential issues.
Brake Tests
Conducting brake tests is an important part of maintenance. Before starting a trip with the trailer attached, perform a brake test at a low speed, such as 10 miles per hour. This test ensures that the brakes are functioning correctly and can provide peace of mind while towing.
Cleaning and Repacking
Annual maintenance routines for self-adjusting brakes include checking the brakes, pulling drums, cleaning the brake components, and repacking them. This helps remove any accumulated debris, dust, or corrosion that may impact braking performance.
Initial Manual Adjustment
When installing self-adjusting electric trailer brakes, it is crucial to perform an initial manual adjustment. This step ensures that the brakes are set correctly from the beginning and can prevent issues down the line. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the initial setup.
Lubrication
Proper lubrication is essential to prevent the threads of the adjuster assembly from seizing. Use the recommended lubricant and ensure it is applied correctly to avoid issues caused by heat, lack of lubrication, or corrosion. This will keep the assembly functioning smoothly and prevent potential braking problems.
Part Replacement
In some cases, you may need to replace certain parts of the self-adjusting electric trailer brakes. This can include brake shoes or loaded backing plates. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended replacement intervals and the correct parts to use.
It is important to consult the specific maintenance guidelines provided by the manufacturer of your self-adjusting electric trailer brakes, as they may have unique requirements or recommendations. Regular maintenance ensures the continued safe operation of your trailer and can help extend the lifespan of the braking system.
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Adjusting mechanisms
Self-adjusting electric trailer brakes are designed to adjust automatically as needed to ensure they are always in the optimal position. This is in contrast to manual brakes, which require periodic manual adjustments.
Self-adjusting electric trailer brakes typically use an adjuster assembly that moves freely to adjust the brakes as needed. This assembly consists of an adjuster wheel or star wheel adjuster connected to an actuating arm. The actuating arm is linked to an electromagnet, which receives an electric current from the brake controller in the tow vehicle's cab.
When the brakes are activated, the electromagnet is energised, attracting it to the rotating surface of the drum. This movement causes the actuating arm to press the brake shoes or pads against the drum, creating friction that slows the wheels. The adjuster wheel can be turned to tighten or loosen the brake pads, ensuring they are in the correct position.
To manually adjust self-adjusting electric trailer brakes, a brake adjustment tool, trailer brake spoon, or flathead screwdriver can be used to turn the adjuster wheel. Prying the tool downward tightens the brake pads, while prying upward loosens them. It is important to ensure that the adjuster assembly is free to move during adjustment and that proper lubrication is maintained to prevent seizing.
Additionally, self-adjusting electric trailer brakes may require an initial calibration or manual adjustment during installation to ensure optimal performance. This initial adjustment is crucial, as without it, the brakes may not function effectively until they self-adjust over time.
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Brake assemblies
Self-adjusting electric trailer brakes are designed to adjust themselves as needed to ensure they are always in the optimum position. This is in contrast to manual brakes, which require manual adjustment via a star wheel adjuster, a brake spoon, or a flathead screwdriver. The two main types of electric brake assemblies for axles 7K and below are Forward Self Adjusting (FSA) and Manual Adjusting.
FSA brakes are designed to automatically adjust to perform at their best, which means they may not last as long as manually adjusted brakes. Manually adjusted brakes, if not adjusted regularly, are not used to their full potential, and the shoes wear slower. It is recommended that electric trailer brakes be checked and adjusted every 3,000 miles or 3 months.
The process of adjusting trailer brakes involves jacking up the trailer, accessing the brakes, using an adjustment tool, and testing for tire lockup. The adjuster is typically located below the brake drum, and turning it one click at a time will tighten or loosen the brake pads or shoes. Spin the tire between each click to ensure it spins freely. Once the trailer tire becomes difficult to turn, stop tightening the adjuster.
To loosen the trailer brakes, turn the adjuster back, prying it downward. To tighten the trailer brakes, pry the adjuster upward with a brake adjustment tool or flathead screwdriver. This will push the brake pads against the brake drums, creating friction that slows the wheels. A slight scraping sound or slight drag indicates that the trailer brake pads are properly engaged.
When installing self-adjusting brakes, it is important to perform an initial manual adjustment to ensure proper function. Self-adjusting brakes can adjust themselves going forward or backward, but without an initial adjustment, they will have weak brakes until they eventually adjust over time.
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Frequently asked questions
Self-adjusting electric trailer brakes are brakes that automatically adjust to perform at their best. They are also known as Forward Self-Adjusting (FSA) brakes.
Electric trailer brakes use electrical signals, electromagnets, and brake pads to help the trailer stop while towing. The built-in electromagnets draw power from the vehicle to squeeze the brake pads. As power increases, the electromagnets apply more stopping force.
Adjusting your trailer brakes is important for towing safely. You can use a trailer brake spoon, brake adjustment tool, or flathead screwdriver to turn the star wheel adjuster inside the brake chamber. Push down on the brake spoon handle so the adjuster wheel is pried upward. Turn the wheel one click at a time and spin the tire between each click to ensure it spins freely.
Self-adjusting electric trailer brakes offer several advantages. They ensure optimum performance by automatically adjusting to the optimum position. They also eliminate the need for manual adjustments, saving time and effort. Additionally, self-adjusting brakes may provide improved braking effectiveness compared to manual adjustments.
