Results 1 to 9 of 9
  1. #1
    Member
    Join Date
    Feb 2018
    Location
    Rochester, NY
    Posts
    52

    Both trailer brakes are HOT

    I have a 5 pin trailer (518 ranger trail, single axle), I believe that the brakes on the trailer are activated when force is applied to the tongue when braking. Recently when trailering, the brakes became very hot and were smoking. Pads are still very thick and there is plenty of grease packed. When jacked up and not plugged into the truck, the wheels spin freely. When plugged into the truck there is a bit more resistance.

    Any idea what may be going on? All insight is appreciated!
    Last edited by msail3; 05-28-2023 at 05:12 PM.

  2. Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2014
    Location
    SW, Ohio
    Posts
    17,192
    #2
    do you push the pressure release before hitting the road? located under the tonque? how new of trailer?
    2022 z519 cup 225 merc 4s ser # 3B210484. 2--hds12 live units. 2 poles, atlas plate, ghost, hamby's, active target, merc digital gauges
    2002 basscat pantera 3 (dad bought new) sold 8-2-22
    2000 stratos 20 ss (bought new) 200 hp Rude ficht great boat/motor sold 11-21
    pulled by a 2500HD Denali
    proud dad of an ARMY Captain
    MAGA
    ASE/GM Master tech before tools

  3. Member
    Join Date
    Dec 2018
    Location
    Kelseyville Ca
    Posts
    5,465
    #3
    Very common for calipers to stick and get hot and fry the seals

  4. Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2012
    Location
    Insomnia, near Seaford Delaware
    Posts
    35,511
    #4
    I don't have one. Is it the model with the emergency brake? There should also be a safety cable that, if pulled, will apply the master cylinder until it is reset.

  5. Member Bill Reynolds's Avatar
    Join Date
    Aug 2013
    Location
    The Diamond State
    Posts
    3,849
    #5
    Quote Originally Posted by billnorman1 View Post
    I don't have one. Is it the model with the emergency brake? There should also be a safety cable that, if pulled, will apply the master cylinder until it is reset.
    This May help


    I try to drive as if my 16 year old Grandson is following me
    Speak as if he is listening and act as if he is watching

  6. Airborne/Infantry bassnman81's Avatar
    Join Date
    Mar 2011
    Location
    Lake Norman NC
    Posts
    5,778
    #6
    Level ?


    Lake Norman, N.C./New Britain,CT.
    2000 R-81 Ranger, 2015 175 Pro-XS
    Disabled American Veterans, Life Member
    Vietnam Veterans of America, Life Member
    An Khe Vietnam, 66-67

  7. Member
    Join Date
    Feb 2016
    Location
    Toronto, ON, Canada
    Posts
    312
    #7
    Drum or disc? The brakes should only engage if the actuator is being depressed. Have you bled the brakes? Maybe adjust them of you can?

    What kind of actuator do you have? Have you checked the master cylinder and brake fluid condition?

    Your scenario about them being stiffer when the trailer is plugged into the harness, shouldn't have any effect
    1995 Champion 190 dcx Elite

  8. Scraps
    Join Date
    Apr 2007
    Location
    Havertown, PA
    Posts
    9,586
    #8
    Sticking caliper or brake fluid level?
    2017 Phoenix 819
    2016 200ProXS, s/n 2B359849, Mod 1200P73BD

  9. Member
    Join Date
    Oct 2013
    Location
    Tuttle, OK
    Posts
    1,232
    #9
    Had the same thing happen awhile back. It was the plunger sticking in the actuator assembly. Replaced the whole thing. Problem solved.
    2020 Caymas CX21 Pro
    Mercury 250 Pro XS
    Serial# 2B686100