Bad Trailer Breaks: What are the signs?

Tow vehicle and trailer brakes are essential to safety on the road. Because you’re hauling much more weight than passenger vehicles, brakes can wear far faster. What are the warning signs of bad trailer brakes? 

Watch Out for These Signs Your Brakes Are On Their Way Out

• High-pitched grounding sound
  This noise occurs when the steel part of your worn brakes come in contact with the rotor. If you hear a squeal when your vehicle is in motion, and it stops when the brakes are applied, this is likely your brake wear indicators notifying you of the need for new brakes.
  
  
• Grinding sound when brakes are applied

If you tap the brakes and hear a grinding noise, your brake pads are likely worn-through.

• Indicator light

The computer system in some tow vehicles and tractor-trailers may alert you when a brake issue arises. The absence of this light, however, does not necessarily mean your system is in good working order.

• Vibration in the steering wheel
  If your steering wheel vibrates when brakes are applied, you likely have uneven rotors. Warped or worn rotors can be turned and smoothed or replaced to correct this issue. This is more than just an annoyance, as smooth rotors ensure even brake pressure and adequate stopping power.
  
  
• Fluid leak
  If you notice fluid leaking from your master cylinder, you should have your brake system needs addressed quickly. This fluid ensures hydraulic pressure in your brake system. If it leaks, you may not have enough pressure to stop your truck effectively.
  
  
• Burning smell
  The sudden onset of a sharp, chemical smell could indicate overheated brakes, a stuck caliper, or a worn-out clutch. If you notice a burning odor, pull over immediately and call for roadside assistance. It is better to be safe than sorry in this case. If you don’t, your brake fluid could boil leading your brakes to feel completely. 

Don’t wait for hair-raising situations. If you’re unsure about the condition of your brakes, or in need of brake system repairs, schedule a brake system inspection with Ainsworth Trailer Repair today.

This article was previously published at:

http://www.trailerrepairdenver.com/bad-trailer-breaks-signs/

Tips for Fixing Common Trailer Light Problems

Malfunctioning trailer lights can put an end to your travel plans pretty quickly. Properly functioning lights are essential for safety. Verifying the proper function of trailer lights each time you tow your trailer prevents accidents. Luckily, if you uncover any lighting system issues, you can quickly and easily address them with a few basic tools. 

Tools You’ll Need to Fix Trailer Lighting Issues

Leaving these items in your glove box or tool kit ensures you’ll have them on-the-go.

• Replacement bulb kit
• Wiring kit
• Electrical contact cleaner
• Sandpaper (220 grit)
• 3/8-in. dowel
• Tow vehicle tester
  Note: Check your vehicle’s plug configuration before purchasing a tester. Cost is minimal: $5 for standard 4-prong testers; $25 for double-ended 4/7-prong testers.
• Jumper wire
• 4-in-1 screwdriver
• Nut driver

Steps for Solving Common Trailer Lighting Problems

• Verify the lighting wiring system is working.
  Plug your tow vehicle tester into the connector and verify the trailer wiring system is working. If the tester shows a problem, check your vehicle for a blown fuse, burned out bulb, or bad flasher. Also, look for broken wires near the connector. After addressing the problem, recheck.
  
  
  
• Check for dirty connectors.
  Clean the trailer light wiring connector on the tow vehicle and trailer with electrical contact cleaner. Gently brush the contact pins with a fine wire brush.
  
  
  
• Check the ground connection for the trailer lighting system.
  Ground issues are involved in many trailer lighting problems. Clean and tighten the ground wire, ensuring contact with the metal frame. Sand the terminal and trailer chassis contact. Replace the ground screw if you see corrosion. 
  
  
  
• Look for burned out bulbs.
  If you have a single running or blinker/stop light out, you probably just need to replace the bulb.
  
  
  
• Sand corroded sockets.
  If you notice corroded sockets when replacing bulbs, sand them with a bit of sandpaper glued on the end of a 3/8-in. dowel. Spin the dowel in the socket and move it from side-to-side. Add a touch of dielectric grease and reinsert the bulb. If it still doesn’t work. Make sure the mounting bolts for the light have clean contact with the trailer frame, sanding if necessary.
  
  
  
• Perform a continuity test.
  Connect your continuity tester to the sockets and your jumper wire to the connector pins, checking each connection. The bulb will light if the circuit is good. 

Still Having Problems with Your Trailer Lights?

Some trailer wiring lighting problems can be time-consuming and maddening, hiding within the harness or trailer lighting system. If you’re still experiencing lighting issues, make an appointment for a professional check of the lighting system.

Not much left of your old trailer lighting system but corrosion and rust? Get it replaced and get back on the road fast with the help of Ainsworth Trailer Repair today. 

This article was previousl published at : 

http://www.trailerrepairdenver.com/tips-fixing-common-trailer-light-problems/