Dual Axel Trailer Noise -Take off & Stops

[111torrance111]

I have a dual axel trailer I recently purchase (with a boat) that has a brake system, when I first connected it to my tow vehicle I thought something was loose. When I take off I hear a delayed bang that sounded like my tailer hitch was loose, when I stop I hear the same thing. The guy I bought it from said it's alway done that and he never had any problems, this is my first trailer with a brake system and I suspect something is wrong but don't know what to check. All visable indidcation shows everything is OK. Any thoughts on what to check or do trailers with brake just make this clunky sound when taking off?

Thanks for any advise..

 

[dingbat]

Re: Dual Axel Trailer Noise -Take off & Stops

Sounds like the coupler. Could be low on fluid or you have air in the brake lines.

Try manually actuating the coupler to see how much fore and aft play you have it. When my brakes are bleed properly I get maybe a ?? of play before I get solid resistance from the brakes pads.

It could also be the equalizers shifting the weight around on the axle. Check to make sure everything in the equalizing system is in working order. Check the spring bushing while you?re at it.

 

[reelfishin]

Re: Dual Axel Trailer Noise -Take off & Stops

I had one trailer that would bang on stops and starts if the reverse lockout pin was left in.
You can also get noise from slipper or C hook springs on stops and starts, especially if the trailer isn't hitched level.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Dual Axel Trailer Noise -Take off & Stops

make sure you also have the correct ball. having the wrong ball will creat that noise. here are some great trailer tutorials.

http://www.championtrailers.com/techsup.html

 

[ufm82]

Re: Dual Axel Trailer Noise -Take off & Stops

The noise is most likely the brake actuator moving back and forth. Normally there is a cylinder that cushions that motion. A low fluid level could cause this but you'd have no brake action either. Or the cylinder may need to be replaced if it has failed. When I changed over from electric brakes to surge brakes I found the the initial "clunk" on take-off and the "clunk" on braking wasn't a problem as my actuator incoporates this shock absorber in its design. I get the lag both times but it's soft and smooth. Check fluid levels and check for air as stated.
Also check the lubrication of the rollers in the actuator. If they are stuck or seized they can cause issues.

UFM82

 

[111torrance111]

Re: Dual Axel Trailer Noise -Take off & Stops

Thanks guys...I'll take a look and see what I need to fix.

Great advice..

Jerry