Community Forums

Geo-Col · 03-17-2014, 07:34 AM

Has anybody had problems with their Dexter Brake Actuator coming on partially? Stopped for fuel yesterday and heard the actuator operating. Truck was shut off checked for 12 volts on the yellow wire from the breakaway switch to the Actuator showed no power, checked the blue wire from the truck brake controller and showed no power. Unhooked the black wire and the actuator shut off. The brakes had been partially on because the inside of the trailer smelled of brakes, but I never felt it in the truck. Waiting on Dexter to call me back. This is with a 2013 Ram with integrated brake controller. Thank you, George

Ol-Forester · 03-18-2014, 06:07 AM

I did have a brake problem on my 2013 Limited last spring. We left Clermont FL to head home, stopped on I-75 rest area just south of Ocala. This was probably 60-70 miles travel distance.
When I got out of the truck I smelled strong burning brake odor. Was surprised when it was mine! One of my wheels was so hot I could not touch it--like a wood stove. Took trailer over to Tri-Am Rv Excel dealer. Had to wait a couple of days before they could work me in. They jacked trailer up and could not find any problem. They check with Ralph who put them in contact with Dexter. Dexter said they had not had any problems with brakes.
Have been ok since. Just a fluke I guess. I do usually check an hour or so into a tow, now a little paranoid.

TeJay · 03-18-2014, 06:25 AM

Ol-Forester,
You may not want to hear this and I'm surprised that nobody at that service facility in FL told you but since the brakes ran very hot for 60-70 miles those shoes are ruined. Also since only one of your brakes was hot your brakes are not stopping the same from side to side. Once the shoes get that hot they will glaze. You can not remove the glaze by sanding because it's just not on the surface. When the shoes become glazed the coefficient of friction is severely reduced and your braking ability has been compromised. The shoes should be replaced.

Just letting you know for your safety. It's difficult to notice the difference in braking because of where the TT is located but believe me the wheels are applying a different stopping ability.

TeJay

Geo-Col · 03-18-2014, 06:53 AM

Dexter is supposed to be shipping me a new actuator today. Hopefully it will arrive so I can install it and get back on the road.

Ol-Forester · 03-18-2014, 07:16 AM

Your right, don't want to hear that. I do have disc brakes, not sure if that would make a difference. I don't notice any difference in braking.

TeJay · 03-18-2014, 07:23 AM

The same glazing happens with shoes or drums. Yes it is still compromised and no you will not feel the differences in stopping ability. After all when you had the locking of the one drum you didn't notice it except for the brake smell when you stopped.

We had a Chrysler caliper drag on a front wheel and you could tell because it pulled to that side. When it's on the rear you won't know especially since you're towing the TT.

As long as you are aware of the issue give yourself a little extra stopping distance and you'll be OK.

Maybe a new set of pads when it is convenient would be advised. Also do yourself a favor and look up or Google "Burnishing brake pads/shoes." You'll be surprised at what you'll learn. Also you'll learn that you can do this yourself after a brake job.

TeJay