How do You Determine If a Trailer Brake Magnet is Worn Out

Question

Question:

How do you determine when a brake magnet is worn out? See pic - ignore a little black paint I got on it

asked by: Tom

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

If the brake magnet is worn to the point that the windings are visible then you know it's time to replace the magnet. However, magnets can also fail without the visible signs of wear. Check out the FAQ article I attached on testing brake magnets to see how to test your magnets to be sure they are functioning properly.

I checked all of the replacement magnets we carry and none of them look like the magnet you submitted a picture of. If you determine you need to replace the magnets you could either determine the manufacturer of your brake assemblies and contact them for a replacement or you could just replace your entire brake assemblies. If you could email me back with the diameter, width and bolt pattern of the brake assemblies you have I can show you what we have that would work for you. Also, axle capacity would be very helpful too.

expert reply by: Jameson C

1

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Answer 1

Are there any visible signs of wear on the magnets like exposed windings then that would indicate they need replacing. Magnets can go bad without showing visible signs of wear though. To see how to troubleshoot them check out the help article I…

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Answer 2

Assuming that when you tested the resistance of the brakes you were testing the two wires on each magnet and getting 2.0 and 2.8 ohms the magnets on your trailer are not working correctly and will need to be replaced. For 7" brakes you…

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Answer 3

I would check the magnets for wear before going on to test them with a meter. If the magnets show abnormal wear or if you can see the windings beginning to show through the friction surface of the magnet then they will need to be replaced. To further…

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Answer 4

The magnets on the Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Kit - 10" - Left and Right Hand Assemblies - 4,400 lbs #K23-462-463-00 will be rated for 4,400 lbs. The magnets will have the same rating as the brake assembly. I am assuming you need magnets for…

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Answer 5

The Trailer Hub & Drum Assembly #8-388-80UC3 you were looking at is designed specifically for 42mm Dexter Nev-R-Lube axles and you do not grease any of the components. This hub has sealed bearing cartridges which do not get greased. Now if you…

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Answer 6

Without knowing what brake controller you have I will venture to guess that the OL code you are seeing is an over load code. The OL or overload error code indicates a short in the brake output circuit. Start by examining the trailer connector. Make…

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Answer 7

The best airbags for a 2019 Ford F-350 are the Firestone Ride-Rite Red Label Air Helper Springs part #F95FV. The Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs will help with towing or hauling heavy loads, taking the stress off the factory suspension components…

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Answer 8

So long as the dimensions are what you need, you can use an oil seal as opposed to a grease seal on your trailer hub. For example, the Oil Seal #10-63 and Grease Seal #GS-2250DL both have 2.250" inner diameters and 3.376" outer diameters so…

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Answer 9

The magnet should only make contact with the inside of the brake drum when power is applied to the magnet. If it is making contact with the drum all the time, you may have residual power running on the brake wire that is just enough to cause the…

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Answer 10

Since the trailer was off of the ground it would not take much voltage to stop the wheels from spinning so they may be getting power but they may not be getting enough power due to a short or wiring issue. But 9 times out of 10 weak trailer brakes…

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Answer 11

It looks like a Hayes Brake magnet part number 73400. We do not carry this part but I did a quick internet search and was able to find a couple places that sell them. From the research I did it looks like this is an older style of brake magnet used…

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Answer 12

There are a number of reasons why the brakes on your trailer may not be working. Lets start with the easiest things to check. First, check the vehicle and trailer connectors for corrosion. This can cause a short inside the connector and the brake…

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How do You Determine If a Trailer Brake Magnet is Worn Out

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