Roadrunner trailer question

[jmstige]

I've got a Roadrunner trailer with disc brakes on it...We only use it once or twice a year because the boat lives at the lake on a lift.

We are going to be taking it out to do our final tasks (steering cable, impellor, and a good scrubbing) this week and we noticed the brake fluid reservoir is bone dry. Who knows how long it's been that way.

I only need to pull it about 10 miles (flat) each way with my 06 F150 Super Crew.

Do I even need to worry about trailer brakes for such a short pull?

I'm assuming the reservoir needs to be filled and the brakes bled - but I have now idea on where to start. Is that a simple DIY or should I take it somewhere and have them serviced?

[teachercop]

I experienced similiar.....I had to replace master cylinder as it had rotted by sitting dry and plunged into the water a couple times. Your master may be the source of your fluid leak and therefore the system can be repaired by replacing master and of course bleeding system.

I suppose you should initially see if the system will hold fluid and bleed appropriately. Perhaps you will be fotunate and that will solve it.

I usually do not get that lucky.....

[jmstige]

Do you think I'll be ok if I just ignore the fact the brakes don't work on the trailer...I can take it slow and easy - my truck should be able to stop it just fine, right?

[kana12]

dude.. yes for sure.. one of my calipers has been taped to the axle for like a year casue it broke and didnt want to replace it.

[sparky216]

Do you think I'll be ok if I just ignore the fact the brakes don't work on the trailer...I can take it slow and easy - my truck should be able to stop it just fine, right?

I'd probably say screw it and use it without trailer brakes, but that Murphy is a biatch! What is the stat....something like most people get in car wrecks 10miles or less from their home (what I have heard over the years, have no link or stat to back it up)....point being, chit usually goes bad when you least expect it and it's a calculated risk.

[yellow3]

no need for em' go for it

[Oklahoma Breakdown]

I have been w/o working brakes on mine for 2 seasons now. Never been a problem but if you get into an emergency braking situation you have to watch it so u dont jacknife. Just increase your follow distance and you should be fine.

[dogbert]

I think you're fine without the brakes for short distances with no hills. I would get it fixed at some point if you plan to go any long distances.