Can 7k Trailer Brake Assemblies be Used in 6k Trailer Axle Hub/Drums

Question:

I have a trailer with 6k axles. Will the 7k lb brakes Dexter work on these axles as long as the brake drum is the same size?

asked by: Mark G

Expert Reply:

Yes, 7k trailer axle brake assemblies like # 23-180-181 will fit 6k axle hub/drums. They use the exact same dimensions and bolt patterns which allows that. The difference is the strength or sensitivity of the magnets in the assemblies. The 7k axles have a magnet that is more sensitive and will pull harder on the drums. This might seem like it would give you more stopping power but in reality a 6k assembly set would just as easily lock up the brakes so there is no more stopping power gained. In reality it'll just make the brake controller setup a little more difficult as the sweet spot for brake output power will be harder to find. The best solution is to go with brake assemblies that were designed for 6k axles like the part # 23-105-106 for manual adjust or part # 23-458-459 for self adjusting assemblies.

expert reply by: Jameson C