Electric Trailer Brakes to Replace Hayes/AL-KO Brakes on a Homemade Trailer

Updated 04/04/2018 | Published 04/03/2018

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - 12" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 5,200 lbs to 7,000 lbs

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$135.16

Dexter Electric Brake Assembly for 4 Bolt or 5 Bolt Flange - 12" - Left Hand - 6,000 lbs

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$147.71

Dexter Electric Brake Assembly for 4 Bolt or 5 Bolt Flange - 12" - Right Hand - 6,000 lbs

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$134.96

Question:

I have an 1982 home made trailer with dual axles. Wheels are fastened with the old style wedge and nut. I believe 14.5inch wheels. The backing plate is bolted on with 4 bolts but does have a hole at the center top that is not used. Measurments are as follows: Between top bolts 3, Between bottom two 2.5, Between top left and bottom left bolts 3.25, Between top right and bottom right bolts 3.25inch Measurements are center to center and as close as possible without removing backing plate. Did not want to disable trailer if possible. Magnet is located on the bottom side of backing plate. They look similar to the AKEBRK-6 The current brake shoes actually extend beyond the backing plate unlike normal shoes resting against the backing plate. I have been an auto mechanic for 20+ years and if you need any more info please let me know. I tried to give you as much as I could think of, that would help. I have a picture on my phone but unable to upload at this time. If you would like to see that I would be able to text it to you.

asked by: Chris C

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you have the brake mounting flange for Hayes/AL-KO brakes. The standard 5-bolt brake mounting pattern on # AKEBRK-6 will not work. We do have brakes that have that mounting pattern though.

You will need # 23-105-09 for the left and # 23-106-09 for the right. I have included a picture showing the hole spacing of these brakes for you as well.

expert reply by: Michael H