Why Are 10" Electric Trailer Brake Assemblies Side Specific

Published 10/27/2022

Question:

Why do electric trailer brakes have a specific side to be installed on? What happens if I install a right hand brake on the right and another right hand brake on the left? By moving the magnet by hand, it appears the braking mechanism works, meaning it pushes the pads out, in reverse and the self adjusting works both ways as well.

asked by: Alan

Expert Reply:

In regards to electric trailer brake assemblies like the Electric Trailer Brake Kit part # AKEBRK-35-SA, these are side specific meaning there is both a left/driver and right/passenger side. If you're unsure of which side is which, just look at the actuating arm on the assembly, it should be facing the rear of the trailer. If you don't have the assemblies on the correct side, the magnets will still engage but the brakes would be very weak and pretty much ineffective.

expert reply by: Conner L