How to Pick Out Brake Assemblies for a Trailer

Updated 07/10/2014 | Published 07/09/2014

Question:

I have an single-axle Escort EZloader boat Trailer from 2001 with a Titan hydraulic actuated brake system. Ive had the old rusted brakes and shoes removed 2 yrs ago during bearing replacement, but would now like to replace the backing plate assy. I am unsure with which product to go with- Demco or Titan Glaphorite. Are these systems fairly standard or do I need adapters? Do the drums need to be returned or will the shoes clean them up upon install?

asked by: Rahul

Expert Reply:

To pick out the correct brake assemblies for your trailer you need to know a few things.

You will want to measure the inner diameter of your hub/drums and the depth of the drums to determine what brake assembly dimensions you need. For example the part # 40716 that you referenced is a 10 inch by 2-1/4 inch thick brake assembly.

You also want to determine what the bolt pattern is of your assembly mounting flange. The standard size is 4 on 4 inch. You also want to determine the axle capacity of your trailer and go with an assembly that has the same rating, the # 40716 has a 3,500 lb capacity.

If you find an assembly that matches the dimensions and capacity you need it would not matter what brand you use. Demco or Titan would work fine.

Depending on how rusty the drums are you could be just fine. If it's just surface rust you would be fine.

If you need a different assembly check out the link to the right that I attached that shows all of the different assemblies we carry. You can select from the left facets to narrow down which ones would work.