Symptom Possible Problem Solution
No brakes Is the brake line broken or kinked? Repair or replace.
Weak brakes or brakes pull to one side
Is the brake lining glazed? Reburnish or replace
Is the trailer overloaded? Correct weight.
Are the brake drums scored or
grooved?
Check machine or replace.
Is the tire pressure correct?
Infl ate all tires equally per manufacturer
guidelines.
Are the tires unmatched on the
same axle?
Match tires.
Locking brakes
Are the brake components loose,
bent or broken?
Replace components.
Are the brake drums out-of-round? Replace.
Noisy brakes
Is the brake system lubricated? Lubricate.
Are the correct brake components
installed?
Replace and correct.
Dragging brakes
Is the brake lining thickness correct
or innstalled incorrectly?
Install new shoes and linings.
Is there enough brake fl uid or
correct fl uid?
Fill with DOT 4 fl uid.
Brakes squeak, chatter or chuck
Overheated wheel bearing
Replace wheel bearing and pack with
grease.
Low brake fl uid Fill and bleed brake system.
Siezed acutator master cylinder Replace/Rebuild master cylinder.
Brake shoe noise
Inspect drums. Adjust shoes or replace if
necessary.
Brakes overheat, fail to operate, pull to
the side, or function poorly
Leaking wheel cylinder
Check and replace wheel cylinder and
bleed brake system.
Low brake fl uid level
Fill with dot approved brake fl uid and bleed
brake system.
Brake actuator frame damage Replace complete actuator unit.
Brake line being pinched Replace brake line.
Seized actuator Replace or rebuild actuator.
Broken return spring Replace spring.
Brakes improperly adjusted Check adjustment.
Break-away cable system partially
activated
Break-away cable might be pulled.
Determine cause and correct. Pry up on
cable until indicator bead touches or rests
against cable spring stop. This will fully
release the frame brakes and prevent drag.
TROUBLESHOOTING (HYDRAULIC BRAKES)
