Do I Have To Change My Trailer Brakes On Both Sides Or Just One Side?

Updated 09/29/2025 | Published 09/07/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - 10" - Right Hand - 3,500 lbs

(302)

$83.92

Dexter Trailer Hub & Drum Assembly for 3,500-lb Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased

(1092)

$170.95

Question:

I have a 2 year old travel trailer with single axle the my rh brake shoe has cracked and broken off. Since then I have removed and cleaned and adjusted but the brake still is dragging but other side is good. I was going to do a warranty through Dexter but do I have to change both sides or just one. Drum also got a groove in it.

asked by: Andrew E

Expert Reply:

Hello Andrew, thanks for reaching out. If the drum has a groove in it you will want to, at the very least, replace the hub on one side and the brakes on both sides. Anytime you are replacing brakes you will want to do both sides at once.

I can definitely recommend the correct brakes and hub for you. If you can tell me the casting number on the front of your drum, I can use that to look up exactly what you need.

I see you were looking at the Dexter # 23-27. This is for a standard 3,500 lb axle. If this is what you have, the correct hub is part # 84546UC3-EZ.

expert reply by: Jesse M

84546UC3-EZ
(click to enlarge)

Jesse M.

9/29/2025

Hey Andrew, did you find a solution for your trailer's brake issue? I’d love to know how it worked out, as it could help others facing a similar problem.