How to Determine the Correct Replacement Trailer Drum Brake Shoes

Updated 05/16/2014 | Published 05/15/2014

Question:

I have a 2002 Jayco Kiwi Too camping trailer. I think I need to replace the brake shoes but not sure what or where to order the shoes. I can hear what sounds like my brake shoes dragging while towing. One of your questions you answered you said you did some research and found someone needed a specific set/assembly. What information would you need or where could I find what shoes I would need? Thank you.

asked by: Bob B

Expert Reply:

You may want to check the adjustment on your trailer brakes. You should hear a slight but constant drag of the pads on the drum when the drum turns. But excessive noise could indicate that the brakes are adjusted too aggressively or there could be some debris in the assembly somewhere.

There should be a manufacturer name or model, something that indicates the manufacturer and the model number.

To determine the size of the assembly you can measure the inner diameter of the drum at the widest point and the width of the surface where the pads make contact with the inside of the drum. With that information I should be able to determine the proper replacement shoes.

expert reply by: Michael H