Replacement Electric Brake Assemblies for Dual Axle Trailer with Different Capacity Brakes Installed

Question:

Hi I am working on a dual axle trailer I removed all four drums and they have some score marks from the magnets and the magnets are worn. PThe problem it the description tags on both left side are 023-105-00 for both but the right side stickers are 023-181-00 for both, could you please explain why it appears someone change some of these brake assemblies with the wrong part number or are theses interchangeable? I am not sure if I can have the drums machined to save money, probably need all four 6 lug drums

asked by: Tom

Expert Reply:

I really am not sure why different rated brake assemblies would have been installed on your dual axle trailer, as this is definitely not recommended.

The 023-105-00 part number you found for the left side assemblies refers to the Dexter 6,000 Pound # 23-105, while the 023-181-00 part number refers to the 7,000 pound # 23-181. When replacing the brakes, I do recommend replacing them with assemblies of matching capacity.

I recommend verifying the axle capacity on your trailer so you can make sure you obtain the correct replacements. If you have 6,000 pound axles, you will want # 23-105 for the Left Hand and # 23-106 for the Right Hand. If you find you have 7,000 pound axles, you will want # 23-180 for the Left Hand and # 23-181 for the Right Hand.

The two differently rated assemblies are the same size, so they are both technically compatible with your existing hubs. As long as the hubs on your trailer are in good condition, there is no need to replace them, regardless of which of the above brake assemblies are needed.

Otherwise, in order to replace the hubs on your trailer, you will want to determine the bearing numbers your existing units use (along with verifying the trailer's axle capacity). The bearing numbers should be stamped right onto the bearings themselves.

Since you mentioned having 6 lug hubs, the most likely compatible replacement will be with the etrailer 6,000 Pound Hub and Drum Assembly # AKHD-655-6-EZ-K. This hub and drum uses the # 25580 inner bearing, # 15123 outer bearing, and features a 6 on 5-1/2 inch bolt pattern. I do still recommend checking your axle capacity and bearing numbers just to be sure.