Trailer Question.

[orion208]

On my Meltrail trailer with surge brakes there is a refill cap for DOT 3 on the top.under the spot where the hitch goes to the ball there is what appears to be a "shock absorber"about 9 inches in length.I notice this year the the hitch moving forward and backward quite easily while on the truck as though the shock has lost it's hydralics and become weak>Is this a case of just replacing the shock,how easy is it,and is it unsafe to use the way it is now?Thanks

 

[dajohnson53]

Re: Trailer Question.

Maybe someone else knows better than me, but I believe the "shock" is the actual hydraulic cylinder for the surge brakes. My guess is that the brakes aren't working well if at all. If you're good at troubleshooting and repairing brakes, go for it. If not, take it to a shop that does trailer brakes and have them checked and /or re-habbed. I've found that this really isn't expensive work for a pro, and I've taken to not messing with it other than figuring out if they're working.<br /><br />You can do a quick check for yourself by jacking up the trailer and then testing to see if moving the actuator/coupler (mimicing braking action) actually causes the wheels to brake.

 

[jeff_nicholas]

Re: Trailer Question.

I'd check for low fluid or air in the lines...or the brakes could be way out of adjustment.<br /><br />This is how I 'test' my coupler:<br />Get a 2X4 about 4 feet long. Stand it up vertically in front of the coupler. Bring the safety chains around the 2X4 and hook them to themselves snugly against the 2X4. I put a screw in the 2X4 to keep the chain 1/2 way up to the coupler rather than letting it hang low near the ground. You might have to experiment to get the chain in the right place...<br /><br />Now push the top of the 2X4 back, forcing the coupler to activate the brakes. The coupler should get firm and quit moving well before it bottoms out.. You could have someone trying to turn the trailer wheel as you activate the brakes, but you can tell by the feel if the hydraulics are working.<br /><br />This same 2X4 method is a good way to bleed the brakes as well.<br /><br />Nick in Spartanburg, SC<br /> http://www.geocities.com/jeff_nicholas/BBR.html

 

[orion208]

Re: Trailer Question.

Thanks for the advice.I think I will leave this one to the pros.

 

[jlshields]

Re: Trailer Question.

D. That shock is to dampen the braking action of the surge brakes. Without it you would slide your trailer tires every time you stop.

 

[dajohnson53]

Re: Trailer Question.

There ya go - lucky I used weasel words with my advice. That's why I have a mechanic do my brakes every spring. Thanks!