trailer maintenance day

[brain55]

I figured since I've had my trailer for two years now, it wouldn't hurt to check the brakes and adjust the wheel bearings today. I expected to pop the drums off and then call to order new shoes. I was surprised that it didn't need brakes, they were probably 90%. I guess that is the difference between having a trailer built to do the job and making one that is to light do the job. My last trailer had 12" x 2" brakes and was carrying 4000 more lbs. than it should have. I needed to do the brakes on that trailer once a year. My current trailer has 12" x 3 1/2" brakes and is carrying 3000 lbs. less than it is rated for. The bearings were only a little loose, but still in great condition, I just put them back together and greased them through the easy lube spindles. I should be good for another year or more.

Brian

 

[Diamondpilot]

I went though that just last winter. I had a boat I sold that was on a 7K trailer. The boat and gear could get it slightly over 7K easily. It ate tires, brakes, and bearings.

The new boat I am going to get on Friday will have a 14K trailer with disc brakes for a 9,500# total load. Yes, I could get by with a 10,400# trailer but it would be too close for the 5,000 miles or more a year I plan on towing it. Totally over done but will never has a issue.

Chris

 

[Raspy]

I started doing some maintenance on one of mine with tandem 3500lb axles and discovered the equalizer shackles and spring eye bushings were all shot. It's the same setup used with the 5200 lb axles. Look for that next time you get a chance.

I'm wondering how to know when it's time to replace the magnets? How thin can they get?

 

[brain55]

I started doing some maintenance on one of mine with tandem 3500lb axles and discovered the equalizer shackles and spring eye bushings were all shot. It's the same setup used with the 5200 lb axles. Look for that next time you get a chance.

I'm wondering how to know when it's time to replace the magnets? How thin can they get?

I have torque-flex axles so I don't have to worry about shackles, bushings, equalizers, or links. I think if you are asking yourself if the magnets are too thin, it is probably time to replace them.

Brian

 

[BruceWard]

I'm wondering how to know when it's time to replace the magnets? How thin can they get?

I took one of the drums off a friends horse trailer with non functional brakes. The magnets outer skin was completely worn away and the copper winding inside was exposed. My guess is that the magnet will work fine until it fails as his had. The outer skin should not have an effect on the strength of pull as long as it is there.

 

[Raspy]

I'm just thinking there must be some kind of thickness measurement or wear grooves or something. I am not going to replace them just because I'm curious.

I agree that they will work till they wear through the windings. Just don't know how deep into the block the windings are.

It's a surprisingly good system. I've had mine smoking in the mountains several times and the only result is some cracks on the linings. The drums have been hot but the wear surfaces are smooth and crack free.