Choosing the Correct 10 x 2-1/4 Inch Electric Brakes

Question:

I am trying to find the proper replacement brakes for my 1978 Aristocrat Camper. For the sake of argument, let us say I have 3500 lb axles based on the method that I have found on your website that involves measuring the diameter of the axle. I was impatient and wanted to ask the question before I went down and measured the axles. My question is do I use the axle weight rating to determine the brakes weight rating or the weight of the camper to determine the brake weight rating? I have a 10-inch diameter drum and a depth of 2 1/4 inches and the shoes match that depth. I can find what looks like it will fit based on the pictures but I run into two options either 3500 lb brakes or 4400 lb brakes. Which number do I use to determine which part to get? Or is there another measurement I can take to help with this? Code: AKEBRK-35 VS Code: K23-478-479 for example.

asked by: Patrick T

Helpful Expert Reply:

The brakes need to fit the axle. Or more specifically the hubs and the brake mounting flanges on the axle. One thing that may be confusing you is that brake assemblies for 4,400 pound axles and those for 3,500 pound axles are both 10 x 2-1/4 inches. The difference will be the brake mounting flange bolt hole pattern.

If your axle is a indeed a 3,500 pound axle # AKEBRK-35-SA will work for you. The mounting bolts are included but you need part # BRKH10B for the nuts and lock washers.

If it turns out you have a 4,400 pound axle you'll need to check the mounting holes of the brake flange. If they're 2-3/16 inches apart center on center then use part # 23-454-455. If instead they measure 2-7/8 inches center on center between the top two holes and 3-1/4 inches center on center between the bottom two holes use part # K23-478-479. Both of these kits include the bolts, nuts, and washers.

Each part number includes both the left and right hand brakes. Make sure when you're installing them to pay attention to which is which because they are side specific on the trailer. The brake assemblies are labeled left and right.