Homesteader Utility Trailer

Check brake shoes for scoring and wear

Replace brake shoes per manufacturer’s specifications if needed

Grease gears at top of drop-leg jack

Inspect all frame members, bolts & rivets for damage

Repair or replace damaged, worn or broken frame parts

Inspect all welds for cracks or failure

Check if the brakes adjust automatically

Confirm that the brakes work with a hard stop

Jack up the trailer and secure it on adequate capacity jack stands

Ensure the wheel and brake drum rotate freely

Remove the adjusting-hole cover from the adjusting slot on the bottom of the brake backing plate

Rotate the star wheel of the adjuster assembly to expand the brake shoes

Rotate the star wheel in the opposite direction until the wheel turns freely with a slight drag

Record mileage since last tire rotation

Have the tires been rotated at 5,000 miles?

Inspect tires for the following issues

Check brake power output (amperage)

Breakaway Brake System Inspection

Check operation of breakaway brakes and battery

Connect the pull pin cable to the tow vehicle correctly

Remove the pull pin from the switch and test tow the trailer at less than 5 m.p.h.

Did the trailer resist being towed?

Immediately replace the pull pin after testing

Inspect safety components and structural integrity

Grease the gooseneck ball and check locking device

Read axle and brake manual to determine if brakes adjust automatically

Jack up the trailer and secure it on adequate capacity jack stands

Ensure the wheel and brake drum rotate freely

Remove the adjusting-hole cover from the adjusting slot on the bottom of the brake backing plate

Describe the type of axle and any special tools required for adjustment

Rotate the star wheel of the adjuster assembly to expand the brake shoes until the wheel is very difficult to turn

Rotate the star wheel in the opposite direction until the wheel turns freely with a slight drag