Can Old Brakes Be Used on Axle Replaced Under Warranty

Updated 01/19/2026 | Published 08/05/2024

Question:

I have a tandem axle 5th wheel. I had the front axle assembly replaced under warranty. Can you advise if I would be better to continue to use the old brake hub assembly in place of the new one sent with the axle? And/of if I use the new brake hub assembly sent with the axle - beside burning in the new brakes do you know if there is anything else I would need to do - since one set of brakes will be old and the other new. Thanks in advance for your time.

asked by: Rick S

Expert Reply:

Hi Rick; as long as the performance of the old brake assemblies was normal there is no reason you can't move them over to the new axle. I would actually recommend moving them over until they start to wear out. You already have a new pair of replacement brakes so you can swap them when you notice the brakes aren't performing as well as they should be. If you decide to keep the new brakes on that is fine and they can be used with the older brakes on the other axle. The important thing is to replace them in pairs so the brakes are the same on that particular axle.

expert reply by: Robin H

Robin H.

1/19/2026

Hey Rick, how did things go with the brake hub assemblies on your 5th wheel after the axle replacement? Did you end up reusing the old brakes or switching to the new ones? Your update could make it easier for others facing the same choice.

Rick S.

1/19/2026

@RobinH - Hi Robin. Thanks for reaching out. I was able to use the old brakes so both the front and rear brakes match. If it comes a time I will need new brakes I will purchase another set for another matching set.