Pulsating trailer surge brakes after pulling out from water

Chris51280

Ensign
Joined
Jan 24, 2018
Messages
932
I noticed that after I take the trailer out of the water after I put the boat back on that when I step on the brakes that they hop/pulsars. They are fine when dry. Anybody wlse have the same problem with hydraulic surge brakes with drum setup?
 

Grub54891

Admiral
Joined
Jun 17, 2012
Messages
6,078
It's because they are wet. They try to grab, and slip, let go, grab and so on. The hitch slides in to apply the brakes, they grab a bit, and then the hitch moves forward, releasing the brakes. Once dry they grab smoothly. Even your car likes dry brakes, if you drive in high water they don't grab well.
 

Lowlysubaruguy

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Dec 3, 2012
Messages
514
Have the hubs or drums removed make sure the shoes are not covered in grease or brake fluid from a leak. Sand deglaze the drums and shoes and have them adjusted at the same time.
 

Chris51280

Ensign
Joined
Jan 24, 2018
Messages
932
thanks. just wondered if others have the same problem. I got new brake cylinders and actuator put on last summer since it wasn't working at all. It looked ok but will check again after it gets warmer.
 
Top