question about trailer brakes.
I have an older 32 ft pull behind trailer which I bought new. When new I could feel the trailer breaks working but I could not get them to lock up and slide the tires. On a gravel road they might so...
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Get a DC clamp-on ammeter and look for 3 amps at each wheel when the controller is manually applied. Next check the brake adjustment at each wheel.
Drum brakes need to run in a bit if they have been sitting in storage. So you need to drive some to get them worked in and warmed up. In a clear and safe space fully apply just the trailer brakes manually at 30 to 40 MPH. They may lock and they may not but they should pull you firmly to a stop. This should give you a comfort level that they are working properly. There is no guaranty the wheels will lock.
If you are not comfortable with the braking force you will need to remove one or all drums to inspect.
If you really want superior braking I recommend converting to disk brakes.
Drum brakes need to run in a bit if they have been sitting in storage. So you need to drive some to get them worked in and warmed up. In a clear and safe space fully apply just the trailer brakes manually at 30 to 40 MPH. They may lock and they may not but they should pull you firmly to a stop. This should give you a comfort level that they are working properly. There is no guaranty the wheels will lock.
If you are not comfortable with the braking force you will need to remove one or all drums to inspect.
If you really want superior braking I recommend converting to disk brakes.
