Turning Trailer hubs

[RBeard]

I started having lack of braking issues on my 24' GN lately. So I checked the wiring and grounds, replaced my 14 yr. old controller with a Curt Tri-Flex and installed all new complete backing plates with little change in braking performance#@$%!. I have to turn the controller all the way up to have any noticeable braking, the wheels don't even lock up when empty on a grass pasture while applying the manual lever. Do the brake drums become slick(polished by shoes) over time and need to be turned, so they will grip better???. They are not warped, I previously only turned my vehicle hubs and rotors when they were damaged/warped by worn shoes/pads. Any thoughts???

 

[Grizzly]

Sounds like you don't have the brake shoes adjusted properly. They may be too loose. I tighten then until the wheel locks then back off 10 to 12 clicks.

 

[mfurrh55]

Have you tried manually adjusting your brakes?

 

[RBeard]

Yes, after I R&R'd the back plates I adjusted them all till they were tight, then off a few clicks. I may check them again before I tear it down.

 

[GAmes]

Not many places can turn the portion of the RV brake drum that the magnet rides on. I replaced the drums when I replaced the backing plate and shoe assemblies.

 

[RBeard]

I was thinking that the surface of the drum that the shoes make contact with has been polished slick over the years and the shoes can't grab and they just need to turned a little to restore it back to like new.

 

[Nigel]

If you are using 12X2 brake assemblies you may have the wrong ones. They are available in 5200 and 7000 lb and I know there is a big difference in the stopping power. If using Dexter assemblies the ones with the black wires are the 7000 and white wires for the 5200.

Nigel

 

[Mingoglia]

I normally just replace everything as a unit. I've found new shoes practically cost what the whole brake assembly cost, particularly when you consider the hassle.

 

[jhenderson]

I normally just replace everything as a unit. I've found new shoes practically cost what the whole brake assembly cost, particularly when you consider the hassle.

That's what he did. Sounds like a bad ground.I'd be checking voltage at the wheels.

 

[MLee]

Some have changed the size of the wires on the axles to a #12 and as noted make sure there is a good ground. If possible run from the front a #10 wire back to the axles. supply enough power to make it all work.
Mwilson run # 12 on the outside of his axle tubes and he said it improved his brakes. but connections can corrode.