Dexter trailer brakes, like all braking systems, require periodic adjustment to maintain optimal performance and ensure safe towing. The key to correctly adjusting Dexter trailer brakes lies in achieving a precise balance: the brakes should be tight enough to effectively slow and stop the trailer, but not so tight that they drag and overheat, leading to premature wear and potential damage. Properly adjusted brakes provide confident stopping power and extend the life of your trailer’s braking components.
Why Proper Dexter Brake Adjustment Matters
The importance of properly adjusted Dexter trailer brakes cannot be overstated. Here’s why:
- Safety: Maladjusted brakes drastically increase stopping distance, creating a significant safety hazard, especially in emergency situations or when towing heavy loads.
- Brake Life: Overly tight brakes cause excessive heat and friction, leading to rapid wear of brake shoes, drums, and other components. Loose brakes result in uneven wear and reduced stopping power.
- Fuel Efficiency: Dragging brakes increase rolling resistance, negatively impacting fuel economy and placing unnecessary strain on your tow vehicle.
- Trailer Handling: Unevenly adjusted brakes can cause the trailer to pull to one side during braking, making it difficult to control.
- Cost Savings: Regular brake adjustments prevent costly repairs and replacements down the road.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Dexter Trailer Brakes
Before starting, gather the necessary tools:
- Jack and Jack Stands: Ensure you have a jack rated for the weight of your trailer and sturdy jack stands for safety.
- Screwdriver or Brake Adjustment Tool: This specialized tool is designed to access and turn the brake adjuster. A flathead screwdriver can work in a pinch, but a proper tool is recommended.
- Wheel Chocks: Securely chock the wheels that are not being adjusted.
- Gloves: Protect your hands.
- Pen and Paper: To note the adjustment direction and number of clicks.
Step 1: Safety First!
- Park your trailer on a level surface.
- Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels that will remain on the ground.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on.
Step 2: Jack Up the Trailer
- Using the jack, lift the trailer until the tire is off the ground.
- Securely place a jack stand under the trailer frame near the wheel for safety.
Step 3: Locate the Adjustment Slot
- On the backside of the brake backing plate (the metal plate behind the wheel), you’ll find an oval-shaped slot. This is the access point for the brake adjuster.
- You may need to remove a rubber plug or cover to access the slot.
Step 4: Adjust the Brakes
- Using your screwdriver or brake adjustment tool, insert it into the slot and locate the star wheel adjuster.
- The goal is to expand the brake shoes until they make contact with the brake drum.
- Important: Determine the direction of adjustment. Usually, moving the adjuster upward expands the shoes, but this can vary depending on the specific Dexter brake assembly.
- Turn the adjuster a few clicks (usually 2-3 clicks) and then try to spin the wheel.
- Continue adjusting, a few clicks at a time, until the wheel becomes difficult to turn by hand. You should hear a slight scraping sound as the brake shoes rub against the drum.
Step 5: Back Off the Adjustment
- Now, back off the adjuster until the wheel spins freely with a very slight drag. This usually requires backing off the adjuster several clicks (typically 6-8 clicks). The goal is to have minimal drag without the brake shoes binding.
- This is the most critical step. Overly tight brakes will overheat and wear out quickly.
Step 6: Repeat for All Brakes
- Repeat steps 2-5 for each wheel on your trailer.
Step 7: Test and Fine-Tune
- Lower the trailer and remove the wheel chocks.
- Take the trailer for a short test drive in a safe, open area.
- Apply the trailer brakes and observe the trailer’s behavior. It should stop smoothly and evenly, without pulling to one side.
- If the trailer pulls to one side, the brakes on that side are likely too tight or the brakes on the opposite side are too loose. Re-adjust the brakes as needed.
- After the test drive, check the temperature of the brake drums. They should be warm, but not excessively hot. If a drum is significantly hotter than the others, the brake is likely dragging and needs further adjustment.
Tips for Successful Brake Adjustment
- Consistency is Key: Adjust all brakes to the same level of drag for even stopping power.
- Listen Carefully: Pay attention to the sounds as you adjust. A slight scraping sound is normal; excessive grinding indicates a problem.
- Don’t Over-Tighten: Over-tightening is a common mistake. It’s better to err on the side of being slightly loose than overly tight.
- Regular Maintenance: Inspect your trailer brakes regularly and adjust them as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about adjusting Dexter trailer brakes:
FAQ 1: How often should I adjust my Dexter trailer brakes?
You should adjust your Dexter trailer brakes every 3,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. More frequent adjustments may be necessary if you frequently tow heavy loads or travel in hilly terrain.
FAQ 2: What happens if I don’t adjust my trailer brakes?
Neglecting to adjust your trailer brakes can lead to reduced stopping power, uneven braking, premature brake wear, and increased fuel consumption. It can also create a significant safety hazard.
FAQ 3: Can I adjust my trailer brakes myself, or should I take it to a professional?
While you can adjust your trailer brakes yourself, it requires mechanical aptitude, the right tools, and a good understanding of the process. If you’re not comfortable performing this task, it’s best to take your trailer to a qualified mechanic.
FAQ 4: How do I know if my trailer brakes need adjusting?
Signs that your trailer brakes need adjusting include increased stopping distance, uneven braking, a pulling sensation during braking, and squealing or grinding noises from the brakes. You should also visually inspect the brakes regularly for signs of wear.
FAQ 5: What is the difference between manual and self-adjusting brakes?
Manual brakes require periodic adjustment, while self-adjusting brakes are designed to automatically maintain the proper clearance between the brake shoes and drums. However, even self-adjusting brakes may require occasional manual adjustment, especially after replacing brake components.
FAQ 6: What is the correct amount of drag I should feel after adjusting the brakes?
The correct amount of drag is very slight. The wheel should spin freely with only a minimal amount of resistance. You should be able to turn the wheel by hand without excessive effort.
FAQ 7: What should I do if the adjuster is stuck or difficult to turn?
If the adjuster is stuck, try spraying it with penetrating oil and letting it soak for a few minutes. You can also try gently tapping the adjuster with a hammer to loosen it. If it still won’t budge, you may need to replace the brake assembly.
FAQ 8: What type of brake adjustment tool should I use?
A specialized brake adjustment tool is recommended. This tool is designed to fit the star wheel adjuster and provide leverage for turning it. A flathead screwdriver can be used in a pinch, but it’s not as effective or reliable.
FAQ 9: How can I tell if my brake shoes are worn out?
You can visually inspect the brake shoes for wear. If the friction material is worn down to less than 1/8 inch thick, it’s time to replace them. You may also hear grinding noises if the shoes are worn down to the metal backing.
FAQ 10: What is the purpose of the rubber plug on the brake backing plate?
The rubber plug on the brake backing plate protects the adjuster from dirt and debris. Make sure to replace the plug after adjusting the brakes to prevent contamination.
FAQ 11: Should I adjust my trailer brakes when they are hot or cold?
Adjust your trailer brakes when they are cold. Hot brakes will expand, which can lead to an inaccurate adjustment.
FAQ 12: What happens if I adjust my trailer brakes too tight?
Adjusting your trailer brakes too tight can cause the brakes to drag, overheat, and wear out quickly. It can also damage the brake drums and bearings.