.

Check your last state inspection bill. By law they are to show measurement.

Mine are 12 x 2. Magnets worn out also. My local NAPA had them for $54.00 ea whole assy

..

TonyInPa wrote:
I've just spent the past hour searching the web for how to change brakes on my fifth wheel. I have also searched here. On the web I found a whole lot of buffoons, but not much more. I guess that's my luck, or lack of searching skill.

If brakes need changing what should be changed? Just the shoes? Or what else?

Is it worth changing just the shoes, or is it better to buy a complete assembly? Where do you buy this stuff?

And, in the first place, how do I determine if brakes need changing?

The links below will help you understand more about electric trailer brakes. If you do buy replacements and currently have 12x2 size -buy 7K rated assemblies for the most stopping power plus consider self adjusting units.
First manual is from Dexter Axle:
http://www.dexteraxle.com/i/u/6149609/f/600-8K_Service_Manual_3-13/Electric_Brakes_3-13.pdf

Second is from ALKo Axle:
http://www.al-kousa.com/pdf/ALKO_2kto7k_OM.pdf

Also, electric trailer brakes need to be adjusted much tighter than auto/truck drum brakes due to the way they energize from magnet pull and inertia. If adjusted right they will have a distinctive scrapping sound and only rotate about 3/4 to 1 turn with a moderate spin.

Annual brake inspection

Does this help any?

I got mine from Eastern Marine last fall. They cost about what the shoes and mags were local.

12" x 2" NEV-R-ADJUST™ Electric Brake Assy - R.H. / 6k #K23-459-00 5331169 2 $99.98

12" x 2" NEV-R-ADJUST™ Electric Brake Assy - L.H. / 6k #K23-458-00 5331168 2 $99.98

Subtotal $199.96
Shipping & Handling $47.92
Grand Total $247.88

Ok, before you pull the drums/ hubs, adjust the shoes all the way in. If you do not know how or why, then probably best to research or hire someone else.
Sincerely,
Buffoon :-)

Eastern Marine. I recently purchased 4 entire brake assemblies for dexter 5200lb axles for $157 including freight. Definitely the way to go. Repack bearings and replace grease seals at the same time.
Steve

Pull the wheels and brake drums, may be a good time to repack the bearings. Four bolts and two wires and the whole brake assembly comes off. I bought 4 of them for mine and replaced everything. E-Trailer has them at a good price. So does Eastern Marine. Local stores will be much higher. Auto parts places won't know what you're talking about. Much easier to replace the whole thing instead of just the shoes. Costs well under $100.00 per wheel if you shop them online. After you put it back together be sure to burnish them in and adjust them when done.

B.O.

are you mech handy?? you need to look and see what you got?? if shoes ??it can be a big job. if pads like disc brakes A breeze. got some boddies who know about cars. local auto store has or can get parts .cheaper than a marine store. you don,t need a rocket scientist to do these.