How to Check Magnet Wear on Electric Trailer Brakes

Updated 10/01/2020 | Published 09/29/2020

Question:

How will I know when this magnet is worn beyond use? All the pictures I can find have hole type indicators.

asked by: Rex P

Expert Reply:

A brake magnet such as the one on the Hayes/AL-KO # 185100 that you referenced or the brake magnet depicted in your photo does not visually look “worn out” and they do not have hole type wear indicators. If the inner coil of the magnet is exposed then you could say they were worn out – much like belts showing through on a worn out tire. If you want to assess them further I would follow the guide that I have posted a link to. Also, if you find excessive corrosion on the other parts and the brake shoes worn out, it might be time to just replace the entire trailer brake package.

expert reply by: Les D