Electric Brakes and Breakaway System for a 1960s Manorette Travel Trailer

Question:

I have an early 60s Manorette TT 16foot and specs say Kelsey electric brakes came with it. Will these self-adjusting assemblies work as a replacement? Attached is a pic of the brakes there now, and how do I measure the diameter - outside or inside of the assembly? Also please advise on the best brake away kit thatll let me easily tell its working. I already have brake controller in my truck. Thanks

asked by: Steve M

Expert Reply:

It looks like your brakes use the 4-bolt mounting pattern. Since you have 14 inch wheels the brakes are likely 10 x 2-1/4 inches. To measure you will actually measure the drum inner diameter and width of the surface where the brake shoe pad material makes contact.

If they are 10 x 2-1/4 inch brakes then you can use # AKEBRK-35L-SA for the left and # AKEBRK-35R-SA for the right.

For a breakaway system one of the more popular options is # 50-85-315. But with any breakaway system the only way to know it works is to pull the pin from the switch. This completes the circuit between the breakaway battery and the brakes and the brakes will lock up. I have included links to videos showing installation of the brakes and the breakaway system.

expert reply by: Michael H