Help! Locked emergency brake on trailer!

[Boatcephus]

This has probably been covered before here but I didn't find anythong on the subject. My father in law, who I'm trying to train in the ways of Lake-craft, has managed to drive away from his trailer without disconnecting his emergency brake pull cord. Therefore, his trailer's brakes are now totally locked.<br /> Any clues how to unlock them? Can this be done at home without having a mechanic over?<br /> All I can tell you is it's a Trail Master single axle on a 2001 21ft pontoon.<br /> I don't know what other details you'll need, but I'll be happy to find them out.<br /> <br /> Thanks!

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: Help! Locked emergency brake on trailer!

Lots of smoke?????<br /><br />If they are drum brakes, you should be able to 'unadjust' them, that should free them up. <br /><br />If they are discs, the calipers & pads are probably toast. <br /><br />Either way, they need to be pulled apart and everything inspected, including bearings. Brake fluid will also need to be flushed/changed.<br /><br />Aldo

 

[QC]

Re: Help! Locked emergency brake on trailer!

I was waitng for somebody with more knowledge on this. I only know the narrower coupler style (as opposed to the taller Atwood style), but it sounds like yours is what I have. See the little bar I am pointing at? I believe that is the release. I wouldn't swear to it and can't think where that manual is. If I remember correctly there is a little ball on the cable that probably broke off. It is there so you don't inadvertently set the brakes by hand when you are monkeying with it. I bet that is gone.<br /><br />I don't think he hurt it Aldo. From what he describes they didn't drag it around.<br /><br />

 

[cp]

Re: Help! Locked emergency brake on trailer!

Boatcephus - In order for you to get the specific info you need, you should post what make and model hydraulic brake coupler your trailer has.

 

[Boatcephus]

Re: Help! Locked emergency brake on trailer!

Thanks guys, I'll go over there and get some model info. I'm not trying to cover for something dumb I did, it really is my father in law's misshap!<br /> No, he didn't drag it around more than a few feet so I don't think anything will be worn out. I don't know if the cable broke off or not either, I'll check and get back.<br /> Please check back in a day or so fellas, I'd like to score some points with him by fixing his trailer.<br /><br />Thank ya!