New Wheels and Brakes for 2002 Coleman Westlake Pop-Up Camper

Question:

Hello, I am preparing to purchase a set of tires and wheels for my 2002 Coleman pop-up camper. I think I know what I need Loadstar ST185/80D13 Bias Trailer Tire with 13inch White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D - AM3S331. I purchased these same wheels for my previous 1998 Coleman pop-up. I am also considering replacing the electric brakes. I tried to adjust the original brakes I cant even feel them when they engage, but was unsuccessful. Can you tell me what brake assemblies to buy? Is it better to purchase self-adjusting units? What hardware do I need to mount them? Special tools? Installation instructions? Thanks a lot.

asked by: Ryan T

Expert Reply:

The # AM3S331 ST185/80D-13 wheel/tire combo you specified should work well for you.

The brake assemblies you need will depend on the diameter of your brake drum, which is most likely a 7x1-1/4 inch (7 inches inside diameter, 1-1/4 inside depth). If that's the case, you'd use the AxleTek # AKEBRK-2L for the drivers side and # AKEBRK-2R for the passenger side. There isn't a self-adjusting 7 inch diameter brake assembly available.

If you have a 10x2-1/4 inch brake drum, you'd use # AKEBRK-35R-SA for the passenger side and # AKEBRK-35L-SA for the driver side. These brake assemblies are self-adjusting.

No special tools are required. Simply remove the brake drum then undo the wiring connection for the brake magnets on the old brake assemblies. Remove the nuts holding the existing brake assemblies in place, and replace with the new assembly. The brake magnet will have two leads coming off of it. One lead grounds to the trailer frame, the other connects to the brake circuit from the trailer connector. Since you have the brake drum off, it's a good time to repack your wheel bearings. I'll link you to a video showing how to install the brake assembly, repack your wheel bearings, and how to reassemble everything afterwards.

Both brake assemblies have built in mounting studs for attaching to the brake mounting flanges. Nuts and Lock Washers are available as part # BIK-00.