Electric Drum Brakes for 10K Axle Conversion from Hydraulic Brakes

Question:

I am replacing Hydraulic brakes on dexter 10k axles and would like to use Electric brakes. Im wondering if these would work. The bolt pattern looks the same though the current brakes are 12-1/4 x 4. Is there any problem with running these slightly narrower brake shoes?

asked by: Nils

Expert Reply:

Your choice of electric drum brakes to replace your hydraulics will be based on axle weight capacity. We do have electric brakes rated for 10K axles and these have the same 12-1/4 x 4 dimensions as your current hydraulics. You can see all of these electric brakes on the linked page.

For example, Dexter Self-Adjusting brake set # 23-438-439 uses the same 7-bolt mounting pattern as the item you referenced, # AKEBRK-10R, but will properly fit your drums. These brakes work with wheels sizes from 16-inches to 17-1/2-inches.

You might find wiring the brakes easier if you use a junction box like # 277-000141 and ring terminals like # 44-5310A for making all of your brake and light connections in one protected location. You can use wire # 10-2-1 to connect the brakes; either brake wire can be used for hot/ground since the magnets are not polarized.

expert reply by: Adam R