My 97 trailmaster trailer is making a loud clunking sound when I stop.

Dcicero1

My trailer is making a loud clunking/crunching sound when I stop. The noise is coming from the front of the trailer at the surge assy. I connected my hitch to it and engage the brakes by hand and it seems easier than I remember to push in and it is where the noise is coming from. Any suggestions???

randy56

did you check brake fluid? sounds like its out and breaks not working, is it the same when you take off? 

Dcicero1

The brake fluid is full. The noise is very noticeable when stopping. Not so much taking off. I only trailer about 6 blocks to the lake and haven't used the boat much in the last few years. This year I've been using it and the noise is new and concerning.

Dcicero1

It sounds like the surge assy might be slamming back

randy56

master cly probly bad. 

Dcicero1

I replaced the master cyl and all of the hardware in the tongue. Bled the brakes and now have pressure up front but still no brakes. I pulled a wheel apart yesterday to find the wheel cyl doesn't move when activating the brakes. I will go today for parts.
 WHEN I HAD THE DRUM APART, IT WAS OBVIOUS THAT THERE WAS A BLACK GREASE ON THE BRAKE PADS, IS THIS NORMAL ON TRAILER BRAKES, AND IF SO WHAT IS IT?

Handymans342

Not normal so its probably grease from the wheel bearings. Over greased?

randy56

Dcicero, I agree with Handy,

Cableguy Greg

No grease on brake pads. Clean them with brake cleaner.

Dcicero1

I replaced the brake assemblies and wheel bearings yesterday since they were in terrible shape and it didn't cost much more  than just wheel cylinders. My wheel cylinders were ceased on both sides. I now can't get my brake lines to stop leaking at the wheel cylinders. A project for today.  

Cableguy Greg

Good to hear that you are making progress. The Trailmaster website has all of the service manuals on it, in case you didn't know that yet...

Dcicero1

replaced both back brake lines and bled the brakes without leaks this time. Both wheels stop when applying the brakes now. Took it for a test drive and it makes no noise and stops better than it has since I've owned it. Thanks to all who provided advice.

randy56

@Dcicero1 good job, you will feel better next time you head to the ramp.