Properly functioning electric trailer brakes are essential for safe towing, whether you're hauling equipment, recreational toys, livestock, or a camper. Over time, electric drum brakes wear down, causing braking performance to become less responsive, uneven, or noisy. Fortunately, adjusting electric trailer brakes is a straightforward process that can be completed with basic tools and a little know-how.
In this guide, we’ll explain why trailer brake adjustment matters, how often you should do it, essential trailer brake maintenance practices, and how to properly adjust electric trailer brakes yourself.
Why Do Electric Trailer Brakes Need Adjustment?
Electric drum brakes rely on mechanical shoes inside the drum that expand to create friction. As the brake shoes wear down, the distance between them and the drum increases. If brakes are not properly adjusted, this can lead to:
◦ Longer stopping distances
◦ A jerky or uneven braking feel
◦ Increased tow vehicle brake wear
◦ Overheating trailer brakes
◦ Potential trailer sway or instability
Routine trailer brake inspection and adjustment help ensure maximum braking control and extend the life of your brake components.
Trailer Brake Maintenance: More Than Just Adjustments
While adjusting your brakes improves stopping performance, your trailer brake maintenance routine should include a full inspection of the braking system. This ensures the brakes are working properly and identifies issues before they become failures on the road.
Key components to inspect during trailer brake service:
✔ BRAKE SHOES-Look for glazing, cracking, or uneven wear. Shoes that are too thin or damaged must be replaced—adjustment alone won’t restore braking power.
✔ BRAKE MAGNETS-These are essential for electric brakes. If the magnet surface is grooved or uneven, braking may be weak or inconsistent and the magnet should be replaced.
✔ BRAKE DRUMS-Heat spots, grooves, or cracking are signs the drum may need resurfacing or replacement.
✔ WIRING AND CONNECTORS-Loose grounds, damaged wiring, or corroded connectors can cause brake loss or weak engagement.
✔ WHEEL BEARINGS AND SEALS-Wheel bearing service is often performed alongside trailer brake repairs. Grease bearings annually and replace leaking seals immediately to avoid brake contamination.
Performing these steps during your electric trailer brake adjustment ensures consistent, safe braking and prolongs the life of your braking system.
How Often Should You Adjust Trailer Brakes?
Most manufacturers recommend trailer brake adjustment at the following intervals:
✔ Every 3,000 miles or every 6 months
✔ After the first 200 miles on brand-new brakes (break-in stretch)
✔ Anytime braking performance decreases
If your trailer hauls heavy loads, travels through mountains, or is used frequently, increase your trailer brake service schedule.
Tools You'll Need
You don’t need a full shop—just a few basic tools for electric drum brake adjustment:
◦ Jack and jack stands or a lift
◦ Wheel chocks
◦ Brake adjustment tool (brake spoon)
◦ Pliers
◦ Flathead screwdriver
◦ Torque wrench (for reinstalling wheels)
◦ Safety gloves and eye protection
Step-By-Step: How to Adjust Electric Trailer Brakes
1. Secure and Lift the Trailer
◦ Park on a level surface.
◦ Chock the opposite wheels to prevent movement.
◦ Jack up the trailer and support it with jack stands.
Safety Tip: Never rely solely on the jack—use stands.
2. Remove the Wheel (If Needed)
Many brake assemblies offer an access slot on the backing plate. Removing the wheel may improve visibility if you are new to trailer brake maintenance.
3. Locate the Adjustment Star Wheel
Inside the brake backing plate, you’ll find a star-shaped adjuster. The brake spoon fits into this slot to rotate the adjuster.
4. Spin the Hub
Rotate the drum by hand. You should hear minimal drag before adjustment.
5. Adjust the Star Wheel
◦ Turn the adjuster to expand the brake shoes.
◦ Continue until you feel firm drag on the drum when spinning it.
◦ Back the adjustment off slightly until the wheel spins freely with a light drag.
Goal: Precise electric trailer brake adjustment provides shoes that lightly contact the drum—tight enough for responsiveness, not enough to overheat.
6. Reinstall Wheel and Torque Lug Nuts
Follow manufacturer torque specs—typically 90–120 ft-lbs depending on wheel size and studs.
7. Test with Your Brake Controller
Reconnect the trailer and:
◦ Use the manual brake lever
◦ Ensure smooth, even braking
◦ Adjust brake controller gain to match trailer weight and road conditions
Proper brake controller setup is critical for safe towing.
Signs Your Trailer Brakes Are Properly Adjusted
✔ Smooth stopping with no jerking
✔ Brakes apply evenly on all wheels
✔ No excessive heat after a short tow
✔ Light, consistent drag when spinning wheels by hand
If braking feels uneven or weak, repeat the adjustment process or perform a full trailer brake inspection.
Common Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Over-tightening the adjuster (causes overheating and premature wear)
❌ Ignoring wiring issues or corroded connectors
❌ Skipping the break-in adjustment on new brakes
❌ Adjusting only one wheel—always service both sides
❌ Reusing brake shoes contaminated by grease or oil
Proper trailer brake repair prevents these issues and ensures safe towing.
Final Thoughts
Adjusting electric trailer brakes isn’t just maintenance—it’s safety. A properly adjusted brake system gives you consistent, reliable stopping power and protects your tow vehicle, cargo, and everyone on the road.
With a few tools and some basic knowledge, you can perform your own trailer brake maintenance and ensure peak braking performance.
Need Professional Trailer Brake Service?
If you'd rather leave it to the pros, we can help. We offer:
◦ Electric trailer brake adjustments and replacements
◦ Wheel bearing service
◦ Axle and suspension repairs
◦ Trailer wiring diagnostics
◦ Tire replacement
At Load'em Up Trailers, we're here to help with maintenance and service for your trailer. Simply give us a call at 952-594-9054 or send an email to info@loademuptrailers.com to schedule an appointment.