Recommended Hubs and Brakes for 2014 Heartland Bighorn 3010re

Question:

I would like to move up to a 7000lbs brake set. The OEM just seem lacking. What products would you recomend and what is the correct bearing set for my drums?

asked by: David M

Expert Reply:

From what I was able to find in my research, the 2014 Heartland Bighorn 5th Wheel has a GVWR of 14000-lbs, so you've likely already got 7k components on them. You should be able to change out the backing plates, hubs, and brakes on your trailer so you can upgrade to higher rated assemblies, but I do recommend checking a couple things on your tow vehicle first. It's possible that your weak braking is due to a wiring or brake controller issue on the vehicle; it could also be something as simple as a brake adjustment is needed. If this is the case, changing out the brake assemblies on the trailer won't resolve the issue. I would first check to make sure your brakes don't need some slight adjustments.

If that isn't the case, I recommend testing the vehicle side 7-Way with a Multimeter like # PT89ZR. Make sure the brake controller is set to maximum output and have a buddy apply the manual override slide on the unit while you test the brake output pin (5 o'clock) at the connector. You should have around 12 volts at this pin with the manual override activated. If you have a lower reading, then you will want to check the connector itself for any debris or corrosion around the pins. Also check the brake output wire for any damaged or exposed areas, replacing as needed.

If the brake output is what it should be on the vehicle connector, then upgrading brake assemblies will provide greater braking power. Moving up to 8k brake assemblies like the # AKEBRK-8 would be a great option since they're self adjusting; so once they're installed you won't have to worry about constantly adjusting them to keep proper braking.

When it comes to the bearings, you most likely have an inner bearing # 25580 and # 14125A outer bearing combo; or you have an inner # 28580 and outer bearing # 25580. You will need to check to find out what is there in order to determine which hub is the best fit for your spindle. If you've got # 25580/ # 14125A bearings you can use the # 8-219-4UC3 and if you've got the # 28580 and # 25580 you'll want to use the # 99865UC3.

These parts would allow you to accomplish what you're looking to do, but please let me know if you have any other questions on this.