Should Trailer Brakes All be Changed to Free-Backing

Updated 11/25/2025 | Published 11/24/2025

Question:

Just bought a used tandem axle boat trailer. Not sure what make the trailer is because there is no marking on it but i think its a loadrite because of the stripes on the fenders. Here is my question. On the front axle the brake shoes are free backing shoes but on the rear axle they are not. Should I replace the rear ones with free backing set up? Or are they there to help when back down hill to help with the boat weight?

asked by: Tony C

Expert Reply:

Hey Tony, I would want all free-backing plates on a boat trailer if it was me as it allows you to back up the trailer easier. Basically they prevent the brakes from applying if you were ever to need to back up on a flat surface or a up a hill. Rolling down a hill like a loading ramp would not apply the brakes as the trailer would still be pulled down the ramp.

Do you know what axle capacity you have or what the diameter of the drums is?

expert reply by: Jameson C

Tony C.

11/25/2025

Thank for your response. They are 10" drums and not sure on the axle capacity but it does have 4 leaf springs and they are pretty thick. From my research with the bearings and seal I think the backing plates are Dexter. And if so can I just go with your Hydraulic Brake Kit - Uni-Servo - Free Backing - Dacromet - 10" - Left/Right Hand - 3,500 lbs instead of the Dexter ones?

Jameson C.

11/25/2025

@TonyC Yep, based on what you mentioned the part # AKFBBRK-35-D would be the correct free backing set and would work great. These would work just as well as a Dexter set.