Are Replacement Hubs And Drums Required When Replacing Brakes On Older Trailer

Updated 05/06/2015 | Published 05/05/2015

Question:

I have an old about 1972 flatbed trailer with Kelsey-Hayes axles and drum/hubs part number K-H 71744. I need to replace the brakes. The Hayes/Al-Ko brake part number 185100 has the necessary four hole mounting pattern but the accompanying video suggests that for axles older than some point in the 80s, the drum hub needs to be replaced too. Is that correct for the K-H 71744? If so will the Dexter part 8-174-5UC3 work with that brake?

asked by: Greg

Expert Reply:

The Hayes/AL-KO Electric Brake Assembly, part # 185100-150 is designed to replace Kelsey Hayes brake assemblies with 5-bolt mounting pattern, and is used with a 12 inch hub/drum. This includes both the left-hand and the right-hand side. We do not offer any 12 x 2 brakes for 7,000-lb axles that work with a 4-bolt brake mounting flange.

The capacity for these brakes is 7,000 lbs for the pair.

As far as the drums and hubs are concerned, you will want to inspect them for excessive wear or any signs of damage and replace them is you need to.

I have attached a link to our product page for the hubs and drums we offer for 7,000 lb axles you can check out. You would select the hub you need based on the spindle size and the wheel bolt configuration. You can use a digital or dial caliper to measure your spindle in the places noted in the attached drawing to make sure you get the correct bearings for your trailer.

The easiest way to find the correct replacement bearings, races, and seals is to locate the numbers stamped on the parts you take off your trailer as the photo denotes. If you are unable to find the numbers on the parts you can use the caliper to measure the spindle in the noted places to find the correct replacement parts.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L