Can Hub and Drums On 1990 Four Winns Boat Trailer Be Reused When Replacing Brakes?

Question:

Hello, I have a 1990 Four Winns tandem axle boat trailer, with hydraulic surge brakes on the forward set of axles. The axle rating is 3000 lbs, 14x6 wheels, 5 on 4.5 bolt pattern, and an Atwood 82543 actuator. I need to get the brakes working again, and was looking at AKFBBRK-35-D hydraulic brakes, and havent decided on an actuator yet, but it would need to be able to be locked while hitched to the vehicle, somehow. Not a feature I see on many of them, unless theres a new way to do that. Pricing is a significant issue with this project, as my budget is getting thin. Anyway, my main question is: If I replace the brake setup, do I have to replace the existing drum/hub? Can I continue to use the existing drums if they are in good condition? its a 10inch drum, measured from the outside. I havent pulled them off the spindle yet. The drum has markings on it W-1, DDR, 94000.

asked by: Brian L

Expert Reply:

You do not necessarily need to replace the hub and drum assemblies on your 1990 Four Winns Tandem Axle Boat Trailer as long as they are still in good shape.

The only way to tell will be removing them and checking the inside where the brake pads and magnets contact the drum for any uneven wear.

While the drum is off you will want to measure the depth of the drum as shown in the included diagram, as the # AKFBBRK-35-D you were looking at are only 2-1/4" deep.

If you find that you do need to replace the actuator as well I recommend the Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator - Drum - Zinc - 2" Ball - 7,000 lbs # DM72VR which will bolt to your 3" wide channel tongue, and can be locked to your hitch ball by using the etrailer Surge Brake Coupler Lock # e98888 in the hole shown in the included diagram.

I included videos of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.