How to Prep Brake Drums for Use with New Braking Assemblies
Question:
I ordered these new brakes, and have removed the metal drums and the bearings and races from the drums, and will order new bearings/races. This trailer has only been used for getting the boat across the street from the yard to the ramp for about 26 years, fresh water only, and the brakes were never really actuated. The drums themselves have outside surface rust, though the inside surface where the shoes rub is not too bad - no obvious major pitting. A lot of old spider activity on the inside flat surface. Q: other than wiping them down, what prep work is recommended for the drums, e.g., should I use a wire brush wheel or maybe a flap sander on a drill to remove some of the rust?
asked by: Peter
Expert Reply:
The best way to prep your new drums would be to take them to a local shop and have them resurfaced. Although there may not be any visible pitting they could still be warped which could create more issues further down the road. You also need to make sure there is enough life left in the material which they will tell you before the resurfacing process. If you choose not to have them resurfaced then I recommend taking a bit of fine grit sandpaper and removing any surface rust off the top layer where the shoes contact the drum. The rest of the body can be sanded down with a wire wheel and then painted for protection but make sure to use high-heat paint which is usually available in aerosol cans at your local auto parts store.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Hydraulic Trailer Brake Kit - Uni-Servo - Dacromet - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K
- Trailer Brakes
- Hydraulic Drum Brakes
- Marine Grade
- Manual Adjust
- Single Servo
- 10 x 2-1/4 Inch Drum
- 3500 lbs Axle
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- etrailer
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