51
Parking Brake Adjustment
Periodically check the parking brake.
On a level surface, with the trailer unhitched, lock the parking brake
handle then push on the trailer to test the parking brake. The trailer
may move slightly (less than 6 inches) before the brakes engage.
If the brake does not grip sufficiently, release the parking brake handle
and twist the handle a few turns.
Re-apply the parking brake and test again.
Adjust the brake handle until the brakes hold.
To keep the brake handle adjustment moving freely, periodically twist
the handle a few turns in one direction then turn back the same number
of turns. If the handle is not moved periodically, it may rust or seize in
place.
Driving with Parking Brake On
If you accidentally drive with the parking brake applied, and you smell
hot brakes, you may have damaged the brakes. Release the parking brake
and allow the brakes to cool before proceeding. You should have the
brakes inspected as soon as practical to make sure they are still working
safely.
If you drive
more
than ½ mile with the parking brake accidentally
applied, and the brakes do not smell hot, you should adjust the parking
brakes. The brakes may need adjusting too.
If you drive
less
than 1/8 mile with the parking brake accidentally
applied, the brakes should not be damaged and probably don’t need to be
adjusted. Check the parking brakes, before using, to make sure that they
still grip sufficiently. Adjust them if necessary.
