Installation of Electric Trailer Brake Assemblies and Importance of Orientation

Updated 03/14/2019 | Published 03/13/2019

Question:

According to your video on how to install trailer brakes, the magnet has to be at the bottom and the arm facing foreward. So there must be a right side brakes and a left side brakes. What problems will occur if the magnet is on top and the arm facing rear?

asked by: Sam V

Helpful Expert Reply:

The braking will not work as well because the primary brake shoe will not be in the correct location and you may also experience premature brake shoe wear because gravity will pull on the magnet lever slightly activating the brakes while driving. The assemblies are labeled for the correct side to avoid that issue. For instance the Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 12" - Left Hand - 7,000 lbs # 23-464 should be installed on the driver's side. I've attached a video that also helps explain this.

The 5 bolt flange will help on the larger axles where the 4 bolt flange on smaller axles will make you pay even closer attention when installing.

expert reply by: Jason S