How to Choose the Correct Trailer Brakes for Fifth Wheel Trailer

Updated 11/14/2017 | Published 11/13/2017

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K

(3202)

$154.49

Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 3,500-lb Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased

(1292)

$91.20

Question:

I have a 5th wheel travel trailer and I have brake issues and I want to make sure I get the correct brakes. I have 4 wheels so I may as well do all 4 wheels. I see they are all assembled and all I have to do is put them on and check the bearings. What do I need to know to get the right size brakes and which one is best 2. Where do I go to check the drums so I know they have enough meat on them 3. If need be do you sell the drums/ drum bearings and axle bearings? Sorry to be ignorant on this I just want to make sure I get the right ones and hopefully I do not need drums Should I get the drums machined before I put them back on Thanks

asked by: Ken F

Helpful Expert Reply:

These are all good questions I'm more than happy to answer for you. In order to get the correct brakes you will need to know a few different things - your axle's weight capacity, the size of your wheels, your mounting flange bolt pattern and the inside diameter and depth of your hub.

For example, the Electric Trailer Brake Kit # AKEBRK-35-SA is for 3,500 lbs axles, 13" - 15" wheels, has a 4 bolt mounting flange pattern, and is 10" diameter so will fit drums that take 10" assemblies such as # AKHD-545-35-K.

You can measure the inside diameter of your drum to make sure you have enough "meat" on them to make sure the brake pads will fit, like in the attached photo. As for getting them machined - also called re-bored - that depends on need. New drums won't need to be re-bored of course, but if your current drums have nicks or are otherwise rough than you can get them re-bored. A good way to do this is run your finger along the surface and if it feels wavy that's an indicator to get them resurfaced. Your drums may indicate the maximum re-bore drum diameter; you can see an example of this in the photo I've added.

And we do sell hubs, drums and bearings, and in order to find the hub and correct wheel bearings you can take apart your hub assembly and look at the bearings themselves; wipe away the grease and you should be able to see the part number stamped directly on them.

I've added links to our selection of hubs and drums as well as our selection of trailer brakes.

expert reply by: Kyle S