At What Interval Should Electric Trailer Brake Assemblies Be Replaced

Published 10/08/2021

Question:

How can I make sure I’m ordering the right model? In your opinion, if the trailer is 2014 would be normal to change the brake assembly?

asked by: Benoit H

Expert Reply:

There's really no set hard and fast rule on the interval of time at which trailer brake assemblies should be replaced, but once the friction material on the brake pads gets down to about 1/16 of an inch or the magnet gets grooved or worn to the point where the copper wire inside of it is visible, that's the point where you'll want to replace them.

If the face of the magnet has grooves worn in it, take a good look at the armature surface of the brake drum where the magnets ride against. If that surface is grooved as well, you'll want to replace the drum too. You won't get optimal braking unless the magnets sit nice and flat against the inside of the drum.

If you have a 7K axle with a standard 5 bolt brake mounting flange, the # 23-180-181 Dexter left and right 12x2 brake assemblies would be an excellent choice.

expert reply by: Mike L