Trailer Brake Question

[bobcouch]

Ordered new brake assemblies for my 5er today.
Before I did, I pulled one wheel to be sure it was time. There is still about 1/4 inch of brake pad, and the hubs are in good shape, but it was obvious that the magnet had been rubbing on the inside of the hub.
I'm guessing that was because the brakes were too loose - needed adjustment - but I'm not sure.
Is this a common problem?
Am I right about the cause?

[True_temper]

Brakes are way overrated.

[memtb]

2oldman wrote:
My brakes haven't worked since 2008.

I hope that it's "parked and on blocks"! 😉 memtb

[True_temper]

Send me your old brake assembly's.

[MFL]

2oldman wrote:
My brakes haven't worked since 2008.

No problem, those Tundras have really good brakes!:p

Jerry

[Lynnmor]

You need to clarify where the "rubbing" is seen. A photo would be a great help.

[fj12ryder]

As noted, the magnet is supposed to wear/rub on the hub, that's what activates the whole shebang.

According to what I've read in several places, when the pads are down around 1/16" or less they should be replaced. The figure most often quoted for new thickness is 3/16", so if your shoes are at 1/4" you've got quite a ways to go before they're worn too much. I certainly wouldn't be replacing my brakes with 1/4" brake shoe material left.

How many miles have to got on this trailer? I have a little over 20,000 miles on my 2010 triple axle and the brake shoes look fine.

[2oldman]

My brakes haven't worked since 2008.

[ScottG]

The magnet has little indicators on it so you know when they're worn out.
Also, trailer brake linings dont have much more than 1/4" lining to start with. What you have is probably fine.

[Old-Biscuit]

Was the magnet face 'square' (even wear) or was face 'offset' (sloped uneven wear)?

Were there 'groves' on drum face?


Magnet when energized pulls against drum face and moves as drum rotates to force brakes shoes outward.
But due to mechanical restrictions the magnet can only move so far......it then slides against the drum face until brakes are de-energized.

So some wear on drum face and magnet face is normal.
Along as it is 'even' wear no issues