12x2" Brake differences
I have 5200 lb axles. I'm about to start working on the brakes to deal with a short (according to the brake controller). I'm considering getting some self adjusting brakes. I see that I can get fi...
Forum Discussion
My experience and opinion--your may vary:
According to Dexter customer service the difference between 5200, 6000, and 7000 brakes in a 12x2 is only the aggressiveness of the lining--no difference in the magnet. I have switched from Lippert 4400 lb. axles with 10" hubs to Lippert 5200 lb. with 12x2 hubs trying to get better braking. While that helped, the trailer still did not brake its share. So, I had the backing plates replaced with Dexter 7,000 lb. auto adjust units. So far, it's braking a little stronger but still not as much as I would like. I would like to be able to adjust the brake controller down from its maximum setting. Before someone else asks, yes I re-wired the trailer with much heavier brake wire. My trailer weighs 9400 lb. loaded so 4 7,000 lb. brake linings ought to pull it right down, but so far, not. I'm done--don't want to spend any more money. For me, the next trailer, if there is a next trailer, will just go straight to disk brakes. The Dexter auto-adjust backing plates cost little more than a non-adjust, so if replacing why not just go with the auto-adjust.
According to Dexter customer service the difference between 5200, 6000, and 7000 brakes in a 12x2 is only the aggressiveness of the lining--no difference in the magnet. I have switched from Lippert 4400 lb. axles with 10" hubs to Lippert 5200 lb. with 12x2 hubs trying to get better braking. While that helped, the trailer still did not brake its share. So, I had the backing plates replaced with Dexter 7,000 lb. auto adjust units. So far, it's braking a little stronger but still not as much as I would like. I would like to be able to adjust the brake controller down from its maximum setting. Before someone else asks, yes I re-wired the trailer with much heavier brake wire. My trailer weighs 9400 lb. loaded so 4 7,000 lb. brake linings ought to pull it right down, but so far, not. I'm done--don't want to spend any more money. For me, the next trailer, if there is a next trailer, will just go straight to disk brakes. The Dexter auto-adjust backing plates cost little more than a non-adjust, so if replacing why not just go with the auto-adjust.
