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 Integrated 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 >
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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.