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Old 01-06-2023, 02:32 PM   #1
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Name: Dave
Trailer: boler 1978
British Columbia
Posts: 74
Boler brakes help

Hey all


So I've started my project to get the trailer brakes on my 78 Boler working.


I rewired from 4 to 7 pin. started wiring my tow vehicle for the brakes.....



I pulled one of the hubs to check the existing electric brakes. The magnet just fell out and disconnected from the wires right at the magnet. The electric brakes are looking old and rusty plus the magnet is toast so I'm going to have to buy new brakes. The hubs look okay to me so I figure I'll just buy the brakes.



Questions. I've done lots of disc brakes but never drums or electric. I tape measured the inside of the hub. Less than an 1/8 of an inch under 10 inches, measure from side is 2.5 inches so I need a 10 by 2.5 in electric brakes right? On the hub there is a slight well on the inside edge so the face is maybe 1/8 less than the 2.5. Does that matter or will 2.5 fit just fine? Does the hub look okay to you?


Edit: Nobody sells 2.5 wide brakes. Do I have some funky hub or is it really supposed to be 2.25 into it?



Also is the bolt pattern on the electric brake to axle plate standard?


Thanks!


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Old 01-06-2023, 04:22 PM   #2
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Name: You can't call me Al
Trailer: SOLD: 1977 Scamp 13'
Massachusetts
Posts: 824
I would measure the width of the existing brake shoes and buy an assembly with the same width shoe.

Also, measure the bolt pattern and match it with the dimensions of the pattern on the replacement and you'll be golden.
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Old 01-07-2023, 09:22 AM   #3
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Name: Dave
Trailer: boler 1978
British Columbia
Posts: 74
I pulled the trigger on 10 X 2 1/4. Gonna put them in today time/fit permitting. Near as I can tell they've never made 10x 2 1/2 brakes so if these don't fit I gotta replace the drums or more anyways.



The bolt pattern on the backing plate is 2 7/8 all around which apparently is standard from my research unless your axle is 4400lbs then then one set is further apart keying it so you don't use the 3500lb brakes on the bigger load.
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Old 01-10-2023, 04:33 PM   #4
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Name: Dave
Trailer: boler 1978
British Columbia
Posts: 74
Lots of readers but not many posters on this one...


Anyways I finished the install on the weekend. The 10X 2 1/4 brakes fit perfect. The old bolts were a bastard to get off. Could only fit a spanner wrench in there and used a 10lb hammer to get em off. I was close to pulling out the grinder.


I replaced the bearings a few months back (cuz I don't do things in logical order) so they didn't need repack. Added a light layer of grease to them and the axle for good measure.


I adjusted the new brakes by tightening until the wheel was resisting movement them backed off till free spin but very light brake pad / drum rubbing sound. I'll run a few hundred km then readjust after they are properly seated.



Took it for a quick burn and heated up the brakes really good. What a difference! Its like the trailer isn't there when you stop. I went years without trailer brakes, never again.



My other motivation for the brakes was to be able to safely add the weight for an installed water tank. I'm thinking about 12 gallons. Depending on my motivation I might have it ready for camping season..... Also we are looking at a new phev tow vehicle. The tow capacities on whats available is low and most requires brakes.




Cheers!
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Old 01-10-2023, 06:12 PM   #5
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Name: You can't call me Al
Trailer: SOLD: 1977 Scamp 13'
Massachusetts
Posts: 824
Thumbs up

EXCELLENT!

Congratulations on a well-executed repair/improvement and telling your story to inspire others to do the same.
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