Dexter Never Adjust brakes - replacing the magnet

[AZDIESELPIG]

I am replacing 2 of the magnets and having the drums turned for my trailer brakes. The axles are 8K and the 12" brakes. I am seeing varying costs on the magnets - any where from $30 each to $ 140. I am guessing the quality of the magnet or all they are from China?

What has everyone been using when replacing them?

https://www.etrailer.com/Accessories-and-Parts/Dexter/BP01-306.html?feed=npn&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=1672411894&gbraid=0AAAAAD_vMtnrrDi5aCy2N_tHab7WkWYyX&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0qTCBhCmARIsAAj8C4ZgVTdCg2zka7hFXnRU3ekcT11uo2aSZb7KOjbBZ4Z2a-0P_bG6rrAaAvAxEALw_wcB

Replacement Brake Magnet for 12-1/4" Electric Trailer Brakes | 8K–16K Axles

Replace worn brake magnets with the KC71-378 for 12-1/4" electric trailer brakes. Fits 8K–12K axles. Replaces 71-378, K71-378-00, and 77M-1210. Works with Dexter, Lippert, Carter, AL-KO.

trailerpartsunlimited.com

Amazon.com

 

[mrmom]

I have found that it is cheaper just to buy complete brake kits for each axle than to buy the individual components. Four bolts to remove the backing plates and replace everything at once, then just reconnect the 2 brake wires. Biggest thing to remember is to follow the break-in procedure to seat and burnish the new brake shoes to the drums.

 

[ChuckS]

I’d be wondering why you had to turn the drums and replace the magnets on that axle… the other axle was ok I gather ..

 

[AZDIESELPIG]

I have found that it is cheaper just to buy complete brake kits for each axle than to buy the individual components. Four bolts to remove the backing plates and replace everything at once, then just reconnect the 2 brake wires. Biggest thing to remember is to follow the break-in procedure to seat and burnish the new brake shoes to the drums.

For the 12 1/4 brakes and for 8K AXLES the entire backing plates for a left and a right is about $700.

 

[Travln2]

If you plan to keep it a while, look into Electric over hydraulic disc brakes. A little money up front, but good brakes and much fewer headaches. I know, you just posted about magnets, and it always seems like mission creep with everything rv, but we went through all the electric brake problems, and after buying multiple sets of brakes and drums, finally made the switch about a year and a half ago. If you can install yourself, you can save $$$.

 

[AZDIESELPIG]

I’d be wondering why you had to turn the drums and replace the magnets on that axle… the other axle was ok I gather ..

Iam not sure, I can't see anything that would indicate any other issues with rear axle. The outside and inner bearings look like new, no blueing or discoloration on the spindles.

Cost me $220 to turn both Drums and $100 for 4 new magnets.

I am going to inspect the front axle hubs again after our next trip in August...probably see how the rear is wearing as well.

We did have guy who decided to brake check me doing 70MPH a year ago, did that 3 times. Maybe that hard braking was more on the back axle?

 

[AZDIESELPIG]

If you plan to keep it a while, look into Electric over hydraulic disc brakes. A little money up front, but good brakes and much fewer headaches. I know, you just posted about magnets, and it always seems like mission creep with everything rv, but we went through all the electric brake problems, and after buying multiple sets of brakes and drums, finally made the switch about a year and a half ago. If you can install yourself, you can save $$$.

Ya I was lookin at the disc brake options too. This will probably be our last 5ver...its paid for now and I will be retiring in about 5 years.

 

[AZDIESELPIG]

I got the drums back from the machine shop...they came out good! Not sure why no trailer repair shops carry the little grommets where the magnet wire goes thru the backing plate. They all seem to use other methods to protect the wire. i am going to try some round rubber grommets, if not I will need to order the Dexter ones online I guess.