Can 7000 lb Disc Brakes be Used In Place of 6,000 lb Disc Brakes

Updated 02/08/2014 | Published 02/07/2014

Question:

I have a tandem trailer . The trailer combined with a loaded boat weigh 10,000. pounds. Would there be an advantage getting 7000 pound brakes on both axles instead of the 6000 pound rated brakes? Less heat generated with the 13 inch bigger brake seems like an advantage. What are the disadvantages besides increase cost of brakes, 8 bolt wheels etc.? I tow many times in long hauls up and down hills. Thanks

asked by: Jon

Helpful Expert Reply:

There would be a slight advantage to using 7,000 lb brakes in place of 6,000 lb brakes. The 7,000 lb brakes would not have tow work quite as hard reducing heat build up, but for the weight of your trailer, the 6,000 lb brakes should be able to handle the job well.

The disadvantages that you listed are correct as well. When it comes to disc brakes, 7,000 lb brake assemblies will cost more than the 6,000 lb brakes and all of our 7,000 lb disc brake assemblies come with an 8 on 6-1/2 inch wheel bolt pattern.

All of the 6,000 lb and 7,000 lb disc brakes we carry all fit on the same size spindle, but you will want to make sure they fit on your trailer spindle. There are a few ways you can confirm their compatibility. You can compare the bearing and grease seal part numbers from your current hubs to the bearings and seals included with the disc brake kit you choose. The part numbers for the bearings is usually stamped into the metal and the part number for the grease seal is usually molded into the rubber. We list the bearing and grease seal part numbers on each of our product pages. I have attached links to all of our 6,000 lb and 7,000 lb disc brakes for you to check out.

If you cannot find the part numbers or no longer have the bearings, then you can take a few measurements of the bearing and seal surfaces on your spindle. I recommend using a precise measuring tool such as a dial caliper because the measurements must be exact. I have attached a diagram that shows where to locate the bearing and seal part numbers and where to measure on your spindle for you to check out.

expert reply by: John H