alliem
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Post by alliem on Feb 11, 2021 19:29:27 GMT -8
Hi there, I just purchased a Shasta 69 Stratoflyte trailer, and the brakes immediately started seizing up when driving away. The trailer has been sitting for several months, but new tires were put on in August and it was lived in full time prior to that. The brakes weren't even connected to a battery or the car because we were using auxiliary lights knowing the brake wiring needs some work before using them. They sounded like they were scraping and then they would seize up and what felt like brakes/resistance were applied even when we weren't braking the car. Any ideas as to what to do to fix this? This is my first time owning any kind of RV or trailer so not a great way to be welcomed into the trailer world, but hoping I can find some help here. It's an adorable trailer, though, so hopefully worth it Thank you! Allie
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Post by vikx on Feb 11, 2021 20:16:23 GMT -8
Take the wheels off and inspect the brakes. You might be able to see what is wrong with them. Sounds like they are apart. When they get hot, it makes sense they would seize. Also repack the bearings while you're at it.
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alliem
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Post by alliem on Feb 12, 2021 19:08:59 GMT -8
Thanks! We're wondering if there's something that got lodged in the bearings or somewhere around the wheel that would be causing it since there's no power to make it seize on and off like that. We will try to take the wheels off this week to check if we can find anything.
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Post by vikx on Feb 12, 2021 21:41:56 GMT -8
I think you'll find pieces of brake...
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WhitneyK
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'67 Shasta Compact
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Post by WhitneyK on Feb 13, 2021 8:09:54 GMT -8
The magnet assembly is in constant contact with the drum. After sitting for long periods of time, rust forms, sometime heavy scale rust. When it starts moving again, the rust tends to "grab" brake parts as it rolls around. Rusted / weak springs give way / break and then it just goes down hill from there...
And as Vikx said, take it apart to inspect. If just moving a short distance, remove the brake hardware from the backing on the troubled side, put the drum/bearing assembly back on until you can get to where you're going.
Just my opinion, didn't say it was a good one, Whitney
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alliem
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Post by alliem on Feb 15, 2021 8:57:56 GMT -8
Thank you both! We just got snowed in, but as soon as it's cleared out, we will try what you suggested. I'll post what I find!
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alliem
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Post by alliem on Feb 27, 2021 18:16:49 GMT -8
Update:
We took off the wheel that was locking up, and the whole drum assembly just fell out in multiple pieces...we definitely found the problem. It looks like we will be replacing the drum assembly on that axel to make sure they work properly. Does anyone know if we should replace all four at the same time, or just the two?
Also, any input on how we choose the right replacement drum brakes for our model? I found a model number on the brakes, but doesn't seem to be relevant in my searches.
Thanks! Allie
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Post by vikx on Feb 27, 2021 21:28:07 GMT -8
You may have to replace the axle to get new brakes. If you want 4 brakes, both axles. Sorry but that's what it sounds like.
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