Dexter axel brake up grade

John H wrote:
Lynnmor I hope that you are still around,
I came across what I thought was a good price on a older Coleman 12' Pop-up, bought it for my son and t his family. The owner informed me up front, that last year the bearing took out the axial and he replace it with a new one along with hew tires and wheels, but did not go the cost of putting back on the brakes. I have checked and he did buy the flanged axial that is required to add back on the electric brakes.around $500 plus.
Now I read your post and,,,,,,well can you fill in the make you have been having trouble with and all of the details on all of those experience down threw the years and what was their solutions ?

First off, there is no real solution as the 7" brakes are nothing but trouble. As you read this, keep in mind that I only used these trailers a few thousand miles per year.

Early models had riveted lining that wouldn't pass state inspection as soon as they were broke in because there was only the minimum amount of material above the rivets when new.

Despite being maintained, I've had:

Bonded lining come apart.
Magnet wires brake off.
Magnets come off their posts.
Springs come off.
Severe rusting.
Adjusters break (no replacements available).
Drums were way out of balance.
Very poor braking always.

I've tried several brands, even Chinese knock-offs, with no good results. I set the brake gain less than it should be in an effort to preserve these pathetic devices. I have only once made a trip to Maine and back without a brake failure, and that was after I learned to braze the brake magnet clip in place. There are no other members in our snowmobile club that have functioning 7" brakes. My advice is; give up on the 7" brakes and get bigger axles or a bigger tow vehicle.