Why do Brake Pads on 3,500 lb Brakes Crack and Should They be Replaced

Updated 10/09/2019 | Published 10/08/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement Shoe and Lining Kit for Manual Adjusting 10" Electric Brake Assembly - 3,500 lbs

(97)

$48.51

Dexter Electric Trailer Brakes - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K

(1640)

$166.91

etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3,500 lbs

(739)

$118.06

Question:

What causes cracks in brake linings, and should be cracked linings be replaced?

asked by: KEVIN H

Expert Reply:

Brake shoes and linings (the brake pads) will crack for a number of reasons, mostly due to wear, but also dependant on the quality of the material. For example, some brake pads, such as those on the Electric Trailer Brake Kit # AKEBRK-35 are cut to length, while others are simply snapped off at intervals. Pads which are cut to length are going to see less cracking and outright wear in the material.

If you do see cracking, you definitely want to replace the shoe and lining, or replace the brakes altogether.

The Replacement Shoe and Lining Kit for Manual Adjusting 10" Electric Brake Assembly - 3,500 lbs # AKBRKR-S-10 is a fit for 10" x 2-1/4" assemblies such as the aforementioned Electric Trailer Brake Kit # AKEBRK-35 or the Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Kit # 23-26-27.

I have added a link to a video review of the replacement kit for you to check out as well.