Brake Assemblies

Self-adjust electric brakes automatically rotate the brake adjuster every time there is a brake application that closes the gap between the brake shoe and the drum caused by lining wear.

With self-adjust electric brakes, the wear and tear on the trailer's brakes is reduced because of the increased efficiency of proper adjustments. Most importantly, properly adjusted trailer brakes can greatly reduce the required stopping distance. As a bonus, this will also lead to saved time and money normally devoted to manual brake adjustments. 

When you apply the brakes on your vehicle, an electrical current is sent from the brake controller to the brakes on the trailer. The electromagnets on the brakes will then become attracted to the armature surface of the drums, and the actuating lever moves in the direction of the drum rotation. The primary shoe will push against the inside of the drum, forcing the secondary shoe out against the drum, providing full braking capability.

Unless you're using self-adjust electric brakes, your manual electric brakes should be adjusted: (1.) after the first 200 miles of operation when the brake shoes and drums have seated; (2.) every 3,000 miles; (3.) when operated under special circumstances such as heavy use, frequent stops, or variable terrain.