Do I Have To Adjust New Dexter ABS Brakes After Installing On Trailer?
Updated 11/03/2025 | Published 10/28/2025
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Do I have to adjust these new Dexter ABS brakes after I install them?
asked by: Brian
Expert Reply:
Nope - that’s one of the perks of these. All models of Dexter ABS Brake Assemblies, such as 3.5k # DX73WR, 4.4k # DX83WR, 7.5k # DX23WR, and 8k # DX55WR, are Nev-R-Adjust brakes. They’ll automatically maintain the proper shoe clearance once they’re burnished in. Just make sure to follow Dexter’s break-in procedure - about 20–30 controlled stops from 40 mph - so the shoes seat evenly.
Brian, are you replacing a single axle or doing all four corners? It’s best to do them all at the same time so the ABS balance stays even.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Electric Trailer Brake for Dexter ABS Tow Assist - 10" - Left/Right Hand - 3.5K
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Standard Grade
- ABS
- Self Adjust
- 10 x 2-1/4 Inch Drum
- 3500 lbs Axle
- 13 Inch Wheel
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- Dexter
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Shop: Spindle Nut Kit for EZ Lube Axles
- Video: TruRyde Self-Adjusting Electric Brake Assembly Comprehensive Review
- Shop: D Washer for EZ Lube Spindles
- Shop: TruRyde Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K
- Shop: Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 10" - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Q&A: Do Self Adjusting Trailer Brake Assemblies Need to be Initially Adjusted
- Search Results: dexter trailer hubs and drums
- Search Results: dexter 3500 axle
- Search Results: dexter trailer axles
- Q&A: What is the Best Way to Jack Up a Boat Trailer with Torsion Axles
- Q&A: How to Initially Adjust the Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brakes
- Shop: Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3,500-lb Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2
- Shop: Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brakes - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K
- Q&A: How to Check Magnet Wear on Electric Trailer Brakes
- Q&A: How to Know When Trailer Brake Magnets are Worn Out and Need Replacing
- Q&A: Should Trailer Bearings Spin on the Spindle they are Installed On
- Q&A: How Much Grease Do I Need To Have In My Boat Trailer Hubs?
- Shop: Dexter Trailer Hub & Drum Assembly for 3,500-lb Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased
Brian
11/3/2025
Thanks Andrew. I did both axles on my cargo hauler and it’s towing straight and smooth now. I’ll run through that 20-stop burnish cycle this weekend.