Recommended 7 Inch Brake Drums and Brake Assemblies

Updated 05/16/2023 | Published 05/15/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Hydraulic Trailer Brake Actuator - Drum Brakes - Zinc Plated - Adjustable Channel - 8,000 lbs

(21)

$294.76

Dexter Hydraulic Trailer Brakes - Uni-Servo - 7" - Left/Right - 2.5K

(165)

$227.04

Dexter Electric Trailer Brakes - 7" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 2,000 lbs to 2,200 lbs

(1710)

$268.32

Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 2,200-lb Axles - 7" Diameter - 4 on 4

(1112)

$142.30

Replacement Trailer Hub Bearing - L44649

(2203)

$24.26

Question:

I have a 1995 Jayco 1207 tent trailer with hydraulic brakes. Atwood is out of business so parts are not available. The brakes are 7X1 3/4. The only electric conversion brakes listed are 7X1 1/4. Is this considered to have the same stopping power? Also, I am looking for 7 inch drums that are 4 on 4 bolt pattern for electric brakes. Dexter Torflex axle, with 4 bolt backing plate mount, Label is gone, but axle would be rated between 2,000 and 2,400 pounds. Trailer net wt. about 1,800 and gross about 2,200#. Would the above be a direct bolt on. Thanks

asked by: Ken W

Expert Reply:

Hydraulic brakes are typically better than electric brakes. They engage quicker and more evenly but we're talking fractions of a second. The hydraulic brakes having a 1/2" more braking surface will help them stop quicker.

To replace your 7" drums, I recommend the Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly item # 8-173-16UC3. These are for 2,200 lbs axles and work with both drum and electric brakes. They have a 4 on 4 lug pattern and include lug nuts, bearings, races, and seals. This hub fits a inner bearing and outer bearing item # L44649. These are sold individually.

For a set of electric brakes that fit these drums you will want the Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Kit item # 23-47-48. This is both the left and right side assemblies. They are rated for a 2,000 lbs - 2,200 lbs axle. They also have a 4 bolt mounting flange.

I have linked an installation video below.

For a set of hydraulic brake assemblies that fit the Dexter item # 8-173-16UC3 hub you will want the Dexter Hydraulic Trailer Brake Kit item # 23-398-399. These are rated for 2,500 lbs and also have a 4 bolt mounting flange.

The Demco Hydraulic Trailer Brake Actuator item # 8759121 you were looking at is a bolt on. I have linked a review video below that shows the dimensions.