M416A1 Military Trailer Swapping Out Brakes for Electric With Parking Brake

Question:

Looking to upgrade to electric brakes with a parking brake feature on a M416-A1. This trailer has the axle with tapered ends and from what I can tell the k23-086-087-00 kit works smashingly. Fits the flange. The OEM drums appear to be 10x2-1/2 vs. 10x2-1/4. Will I need to replace the drums with 10 x2 1/4 or can my slightly bigger drums work with the kit? If I do need drums what would the proper set be? Using the stock military rims 5 x 5.5 and it appears that they are 16inch rims. The tires currently on the rims are LT235/85R16. Description does not list 16inch rims. Will that be okay? Many thanks. Have a shopping cart full of stuff to order!

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

It would be best to go ahead and change out the drums when you install the new Brake Assemblies # K23-086-087-00. This will ensure that the brakes do wear in properly.

I recommend using the Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly # AKHD-555-35-K. Of course you will want to verify that you have the same spindle that is required for this assembly. The spindle dimension for the grease seal is 1.719", the inner bearing is 1.378" and the outer bearing is 1.063". If those match your spindles than this is the correct kit unless you have a grease fitting on the end of the spindle.

If you have a grease fitting on the spindle than you will need our E-Z Lube Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly # AKHD-555-35-EZ-K. If you do not have the fitting but want the E-Z lube feature you can get the Bearing Buddy # BB1980A-SS. This will make greasing your bearings much easier.

The wheels you have will be fine. The newer Wheels with 5 on 5.5" bolt patterns are not made in any wheels lager than 15". If you find that you have a different size spindle on your axle please let me know what measurements you have and I will suggest a different part for you.