How to Find the Correct Size Brake Assemblies to Fit the Axle

Question:

how do you measure to find the size of electric brake assembly

asked by: Caudette

Expert Reply:

There a few things that you can do to figure out what the correct electric brake assembly you will need for your application.

First, will be to figure out your axle weight capacity. This can sometimes be found on axles themselves or you can measure the axle diameter. This number can usually tell you what your axle capacity is on your axle or axles.

Typical Axle Diameters Based on Axle Capacity
- 1,000-lb - 2,000-lb Axles: 1-1/2 inch - 1-3/4 inch diameter
- 3,500-lb Axles: 2-3/8 inch diameter
- 6,000-lb - 7,200-lb Axles: 3 inch diameter
- 8,000-lb Axles: 3-1/2 inch diameter
- 9,000-lb Axles: 4 inch diameter
- 10,000-lb Or more axles: 5 inch diameter

Then you want to measure the diameter and the depth of the inside of your axle's brake drum. This will give you the assembly size and the correct width of the brake shoe.

As an example, the Brake Assembly, # AKEBRK-35R, is an assembly that fits a 10 inch drum and a shoe that is 2-1/4 inches wide,. The assembly fits a 3,500 lbs axle which should measure 2-3/8 inches in diameter.

I linked an article on electric drum brakes that will provide more information for you to review.