Electric Brake Performance Issues

LarryDSLA wrote:
I recently changed the brake pads (12" X 2" 6K Axles) on my 2007 Cedar Creek Fifth Wheel trailer and adjusted as per manufacturer recommendations but the brakes are now week.

I have approximately 50% of braking capacity that I had prior to the change of pads.

I tried listening for the magnets pulling into the inner drums but only heard humming at each wheel. ...

the magnets actually engaging with the drums


1) I re-inspected and compared before and after photos taken in the duration of this task to verify all parts were re-installed correctly.
2) I re-adjusted the tension (more drag) on the brakes but I am not comfortable with the latest adjustment but it did increase braking slightly

Your post is very confusing. You say you changed PADS. But the describe adjusting...which you do not do with pads. And you show dimensions for SHOES (12X2). And you mention PADS again. But describe DRUMS again as well. Brakes SHOES go with DRUMS. They are adjustable. Brake PADS go with DISKS. These are not adjustable.

I think you are describing your brake shoes as pads. When they really are shoes (shaped like a half moon) or like this (0) around the hub.

It does take a few miles and stops for the brake shoes to wear in to conform correctly to the drums. Until the shoes are worn in, they will only contact on the high spots. So your braking contact will be hit and miss compromise. Best to put on some miles and about 50 or so stops. Then go back and re-adjust.

To adjust tighten the adjuster star down until the wheel gets hard to turn. Then back the star off, until the wheel turns with only a little resistance. Could be 3 or 4 clicks...or more or less.

Once your brake shoes are fully "seated" to the drums, you will get full braking. But until then, you'll get partial braking, like you are experiencing now. So what you are seeing is normal. But you have a little more to do yet with one more adjustment.