What is the Difference In Electric Trailer Brakes for 5,200, 6,000, and 7,000 Pound Trailer Axles

Updated 06/18/2013 | Published 06/17/2013

Question:

What r diffrent in 5200 ,6000, 7000 lbs shoes all r 12x2 shoes.. Mine last about 2-3 years then linen come off shoes. now one has warranty on them. Use trailer some in spring and fall. then sets around. I have 6000 and 5200 axles.

asked by: Tom

Expert Reply:

First, a 5,200 pound axle is a de-rated 6,000 pound axle so they take many of the same parts. Some 7,000 pound axles also take the same size parts. The difference is the size or ability of the magnets. Sometimes you will see the same type of magnet for 5,200 or 6,000 pound axle brakes. Some 7K axle brakes will also fit. A brake for a 5,200 or 6,000 pound axle should not be used on a 7K axle (unless it also fits 7K axles of course) because the magnet is not strong enough to provide the proper braking.

For 5,200 and 6,000 pound axles you are going to look at brakes for 6,000 pound axles. I have included a link to them for you. To prolong the life of the brakes, make sure that the trailer is not overloaded, the brakes are adjusted properly, and using a proportional brake controller, like # 90885, is easier on the trailer brakes.

Keeps the wheels covered when the trailer is not in use will help keep the elements off of the brakes and could helps as well. Make sure that the drums are true (a brake shop can check that) and that the armature surface (where the magnets contacts the drum) is not discolored. If the drums are warped or discolored then they will need to be replaced.

expert reply by: Michael H