Drum Brakes Adjustment

[jwanck11]

So I have a completely new brake system on my trailer. Long story that started with the thought that I just needed new pads and that ended with the install of new hubs, lines and an actuator inner member.

We bled the lines and adjusted as described, but now the hubs are getting quite warm/hot after a 45 min run to the river.

The adjustment was to turn the star screw until the hub would not turn by hand and then back it off 10 clicks. I did that. It was obvious that the pads were still contacting the drum though and I thought that is what was making it hot so I backed the star screw out until the wheel spins freely. Now though there is basically no braking.

The hubs definitely get hotter than the front hubs that don't have any brakes.

For those with drum brakes, do your hubs get hot?

And BTW, I have to pull the whole drum off each time to adjust as the rubber gasket covering the adjustment screw is behind the axle.

[KonaKing]

Why didnt you go with disc if you replaced everything ?

[jwanck11]

I had no intention of replacing everything due to the cost involved. It turned into each step of the process opened the can a little more. By the time I was done, I ended up with a brand new system.

If I had known, I might have gone the disc route, but then again, my trailer is rusting out from the inside so I do not think it will last another 5 years anyway.

Right now, I just need to know from someone that has drum brakes whether their hub gets hot after a 45 min to hour run...

[urbanstd]

Mine get hotter than the axle with no brakes. I can put my hand on it and keep it there for several seconds without it getting uncomfortable. I have an inexpensive laser thermometer that I shoot the bearing temps with that I carry in my tow vehicle. I see 120* or so but that goes up with large amounts of braking.

I recently adjusted my brakes and I find it easier to remove the tire and then I can get access to the star wheel. The drop axle makes it harder to get to but without the tire it is manageable. I adjust for wheel lock up then back it off Ten. I also found that the left side was doing all the braking and the right side had never been adjusted.

[jwanck11]

Thanks for the reply. I can put my hand on the hub for about 3 seconds before I have to take it away.

I used to have a gauge for my RC truck engine but have no idea what happened to it.

I tried the lock and backing off 10 method, but there was still a lot of grab - when you spin your tire, does it rotate freely or does it still grab - in other words, are the pads still contacting the drum?