Replacing Brake Assemblies and Drums on a 2000 Interstate Cargo Trailer

Question:

I have a 2000 Interstate cargo trailer, tandem axle, rated a GVWR of 7000 lb. with 10inch electric brakes. I use the trailer to haul motorcycles and a few tools.The backing plates are 4 bolt. I need all 4 brakes and drums. Do the self adjusters really work because I dont mind adjusting once a year. I did not see Interstate trailers listed and would like to know which brakes and drums will fit up best, Any recommendations you have would be appreciated. Thanks

asked by: Mark

Helpful Expert Reply:

Self-adjusting brakes do work, but they will need to be adjusted when first installed. After the initial installation you will not need to do yearly adjustments. According to the Interstate Cargo Trailer Manual, you should have two 3500 lb axles, 15" wheels and your hubs should have a bolt pattern of 5 on 4-1/2".

Based on that information, I recommend brake assembly kit # AKEBRK-35-SA and the hub and drum assembly # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K. Prior to ordering, please double-check that your bearing numbers are # L68149 (1.378" inner diameter) for the inner bearing and # L44649 (1.063" inner diameter) for the outer bearing. I also recommend getting the rubber brake adjuster plugs, # BP10-220 and brake assembly mounting hardware # BRKH10B rather than using your old hardware. I've attached a video of the installation for your convenience.

Once your self-adjusting brakes have been installed, you will jack the trailer up on jack stands that have the correct capacity for your trailer like # PTW1605. Follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures for lifting and supporting your trailer. Once it is lifted, test each wheel to make sure that the wheel and drum rotate freely. If included, remove the rubber plug from the adjustment holes on the back of the brake assembly. Using a screwdriver or adjustment tool like # W80630, rotate the starwheel to expand the brake shoes. Keep adjusting the shoes until the pressure against the drum makes the trailer wheel difficult to turn. Then, turn the starwheel in the opposite direction until the wheel freely turns with just a slight drag. Replace the adjuster plug and repeat on all brake assemblies. For the best results, set all of your brakes with the same feeling of drag. I've attached our video for trailer brakes and wiring installation. If you skip to the 4:40 mark you can see the adjustment process.

Once you've adjusted your brakes, the braking force can be further adjusted with your brake controller to account for the load on your trailer. For ideal braking, you want your brakes adjusted so that the trailer brakes are just short of locking up, which is when they are most effective.