How to Remove the Brakes From a Trailer

Higher end trailers often come with brakes on the wheels. These are often controlled by brake controllers in the tow vehicle, or by inertial triggers. These brakes need maintenance like any other brake system would, as the drum brakes wear down with every stop. To work on the brakes on your trailer, you first have to remove them from the axle. This is not a difficult process, and can be accomplished in under 30 minutes.

Instructions

1

Park the trailer on a level surface with the trailer jack set down. Put the jack under the axle of the trailer and lift it up until the wheel is off the ground. Put a jack stand under the axle and another pair under the frame to support the trailer's weight. Take off the wheels with a tire iron.

2

Tap the dust cap on the center of the drum with the hammer, then pry off the cap with the flathead screwdriver. Remove the cotter pin or tang washer in the middle of the hub with the needle-nose pliers , and then remove the hub nut with the 1/2-inch ratchet and socket.

3

Slide the drum assembly off of the axle hub using both hands. Remove the brake line on the backside of the drum with a line wrench. Unbolt the brake housing assembly from the axle with the 1/2-inch ratchet and socket, then side it off of the axle spindle.