Replace just one Backing Plate on TT?

[rfloyd99]

I have a 27' TT that I bought new 29 months ago. it is not overloaded, BTW. I have put almost 20,000 miles on it, about 25-30% hilly/mountainous roads. The axles were replaced under warranty a few months ago, and I asked the tech to look at the brakes. He said brakes looked good, except he suggested I replace the backing plate on the right rear. He seemed to know his stuff, and did not indicate it was urgent. The trailer brakes seemed to work as they should on a recent 350 mile trip.

I don't know much about trailer brakes, I had to look up what "backing plate" meant! My question is, if I only replace one (of four) will I have adjustment issues? I assume they are adjustable, and is that difficult? I really can't afford replacing all four right now, but don't want to do something stupid.

Also, we are leaving soon on a 7,000 mile trip, so good brakes would be nice to have.

Any thoughts?

[rfloyd99]

OP again. DFord, I didn't double post! The post you recently answered was from Big Steve, and he asked a different question (about replacing shoes and turning drums)

The question I asked was about whether it was okay to replace one brake set only. Thanks for your answer about doing both ends of the axle.

[DFord]

The most telling measurement you can take of your brakes is the current draw of the magnet when energized. 3 amps per magnet is about maximum. Of course, they should all read the same.

https://www.etrailer.com/faq-testing-trailer-brake-magnets-for-proper-function.aspx

Individual Brake Magnet Amperage Specifications
10 and 12 Inch Brake Magnets
3.2-4.0 Max amps at 12-13 volts

7 Inch Brake Magnets
3.0-3.2 Max amps at 12-13 volts

[rfloyd99]

OP here. I'm pretty sure he meant the entire assembly, not just the plate. Most advice I've seen (youtube, etc) says that when trailer brakes need to be replaced that it is cost/labor effective to replace the assembly, not just the shoes.

The tech works for the dealer I bought from, and was doing warranty work on the axles. He suggested I do the work myself on the brakes, which I intend to do.
The issue seemed to be that one had more wear than the other three. He didn't elaborate, and I was unable to spend more time exploring the subject with him.

[DFord]

All this sounds very familiar - just a question I just answered.

Please don't double post - it only makes things confusing for everyone - including you.

Brakes - backing plate all the same thing. Replace them as an axle set!

Check the prices for the whole backing plate with new magnets and shoes.

https://www.easternmarine.com/electric-trailer-brake-assemblies

[azdryheat]

Did your backing plate somehow get damaged? If not then why does it need replacing? Backing plates are pretty stout slabs of metal. Maybe your mechanic is trying to scam you. Don't be so dependent on mechanics, learn to DIY. Brakes are not difficult to learn.

[bob213]

Two types of brakes. Self adjusting and non self adjusting. Make sure you get the correct plate. If it's manual adjusting (and it is adjusted correctly) or self adjusting I see no problem with just replacing one, although if it were me I would replace the plate on the left rear as well.