Can 10" Brake Assemblies Be Swapped Out With 12" Brake Assemblies

Published 12/15/2023

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K

(3173)

$179.30

Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display

(3)

$21.20

Brake Adjustment Spoon for Drum Brakes

(222)

$8.08

Question:

Hi, I have a trailer with 10 electric drum brakes, and Id like to get more power out of them, can I replace the 10 drum/brake assembly with a 12 set? Im not sure if the mounting bolt pattern to the spindle is the same or not. Thanks!

asked by: Joe N

Expert Reply:

Unfortunately 12" brake assemblies have a different mounting pattern than 10" assemblies # AKEBRK-35-SA so the brake flange on your axle likely wouldn't have multiple holes to accommodate this change. You would also have to replace the hubs as well, which could lead to further fitment issues. If you're getting weak braking power then I there's a few things to check to try and alleviate this issue.

Use the manual override on the brake controller and test the voltage at the brake magnet with a multimeter # PT89ZR to see if you're possibly losing voltage (power), giving you weaker brakes. You'll also want to inspect the brake shoes, drum, and magnet for any large gouges or scratches that could be preventing the a good clean contact. You can also try increasing the gain on the brake controller and retesting the voltage to see if maybe the brake controller is faulty.

If you don't have self-adjusting brake assemblies then it might also be time to adjust your brake shoes out more with a brake spoon # W80630 for better contact with the drum, thus giving you stronger braking action.

expert reply by: Kevin C