Can Hub/Drums for Hydraulic Brake Assemblies be Reused Once Converted to Electric
Published 04/23/2025 >
Question:
HADCO brake drums. I’m converting my ‘56 Bubble airstream to electric brakes. I installed the new backing plates with magnets, shoes etc. Can I use my original brake drums/ hubs, or do I need a special backing plate to bolt on the inside? It had old hydraulic brakes before, Thanks, Larry
asked by: Larry G
Expert Reply:
Hey Larry, if the armature surface of the drum is smooth then yes it can be used with your electric brake assemblies. Most of the time this is the case but sometimes if the drum was used for hydraulic assemblies it's not always. The surface would need to be smooth because the magnet grabs onto it there. Let me know what axle capacity you have and the wheel bolt pattern if you need to replace the hub/drums.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 3,500-lb Axles - 10" Diameter - 6 on 5-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Hub with Drum
- Pre-Greased
- Standard
- L68149 / L44649
- Standard Grade
- For 3500 lbs Axles
- 1/2 Inch Stud
- 6 on 5-1/2 Inch
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- 16 Inch Wheel
- 16-1/2 Inch Wheel
- etrailer
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Trailer Hub Replacement for Axletek BD-65535
- Article: How to Tell the Weight Rating of a Trailer Axle
- Q&A: Parts Needed To Add Brakes To An Axle
- Q&A: Replacement 3500 lb Hub/Drum for TruRyde RVD-H-65535 10 Inch Trailer Brake Drum
- Q&A: Looking for Replacement Hub/Drum for 2025 Timberleaf Pika
- Q&A: Replacement Hub and Drum Assembly for Lippert 4,400 lb Axle
- Q&A: How to Tell if 3,500 Pound Dexter Torflex Axles Need to be Replaced
- Q&A: Replacement For A Truryde RVD-H-65535 Hub
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Article: Electric Trailer Brakes: How They Work & What to Buy
- Article: Most Popular Wheel Bearings
- Article: Trailer Lighting Requirements
- Article: Testing Trailer Brake Magnets for Proper Function
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams


Larry G.
4/23/2025
It has a raised ridge running all the way around the drum. It is about 3/4” wide, flat and smooth. Looks like It was designed for a magnet. Supposedly they came with e brakes.