Trailer brakes

[ss--ss]

Was wondering if some one could tell me how to test the brakes on a trailor.
I have hydraulic/Drum brakes , It seems to tow ok but realise when I forget to flip up the brake disable latch when reversing it still reverses without problem.
Is this a sign the brakes are stuffed?

[bugman]

I'd certainly want to check them.

On my last trailer boat - if the latch was flicked and I tried reversing, she'd lock the tyres uo big time.

Jack up the wheels and have someone depress the brakes, (you've got hydraulics so you'll have a lever) and see if you can turn the wheels.

Hydraulic drums are really the worst form of brakes on boats has they have too many working parts inside the piston which can seize. Mine used to all the time and I'd would be pulling them down every three months and completely redoing them.

I also found the little rubber cups were pointless - always letting saltwater in.

Brett

[finga]

They might just need adjustment but a full check is in order :)

[fishingrod]

If you are only reversing slowly/steadly on flat ground then the breaking effect would only be small. Trying reversing uphill or (carefully) accelerating quickly in reverse. Or jack the wheels and test it using the hand brake (if equiped)

You could try a bit of paint or liquid paper on the discs and do a run around the block with a few forward and reversre manouvers to see if the pads are engauging.
PS: ive never owned hydraulic brakes, only cable ones.

Rod

[Noelm]

if you have drum brakes on a boat trailer, I can assure you they need attention, and possibly a complete replacement (with discs) even disc brakes rust up and give you trouble, that is unless you have those zillion dollar alloy and stainless ones (Bain technology??) and then they only prolong the time between problems.

[ss--ss]

Thanks for the replies..Unfortunately is has no handbrake but I'll try the hill thing..