How Important is Rust on Interior Surface Of Trailer Hub/Drum Assembly

Updated 08/29/2017 | Published 08/28/2017

Question:

I am concerned about the rust on the hubs where the Electric magnets ride. I wire brushed and sanded the face where the magnet touches inside the hub,but didnt remove much rust. Will the rust ruin the magnet or will it eventually wear in? Thanks

asked by: Larry H

Expert Reply:

The interior surface of a hub/drum will develop some rust almost immediately after exposure to the outside world. You may have noticed after your last new vehicle purchase that rust on the front brake discs will start to appear almost as soon as you get it in the driveway. This is normal.

The concern is that your brushing and sanding efforts could potentially have scored the drum surface. This surface needs to be very smooth in order to allow for proper contact with the brake magnet. Fine rust particles do tend to simply wear off and dissipate as dust but scratches or scoring may not and could result in weaker braking action.

If you run a fingernail across the interior drum surface and feel bumpy grooves or ridges then the drum may need to be replaced. You may care to refer to the linked article concerning trailer maintenance.

expert reply by: Adam R