How difficult to install new brake drums

[Taffy_C]

My TT is 17 years old and I've never had work done on the brakes. It's been in storage for a few years and I'm about to bring it out, replace the tires, and do some surface restoration. My question - I figure its probably a good idea to replace the brake drums at this stage and I'm wondering how difficult that is? I'm fairly practical and can use a wrench, but I've never done any significant mechanical repairs on cars or trailers. It seems like I'll save a LOT by doing it myself too.

Any thoughts on how difficult? Any special tools required? Maybe some pointers "how to" posts or videos?

I believe that I have 3,500 lb Dexter axles with 10" drums. I'd prefer to go with self adjusting - current ones are manual.

Also, is it simpler to replace the whole hub/drum assembly vs just the brake kit assembly?

Appreciate thoughts/help.

Daniel.

[Loganhorse]

Taffy.C wrote:
My TT is 17 years old and I've never had work done on the brakes. It's been in storage for a few years and I'm about to bring it out, replace the tires, and do some surface restoration. My question - I figure its probably a good idea to replace the brake drums at this stage and I'm wondering how difficult that is? I'm fairly practical and can use a wrench, but I've never done any significant mechanical repairs on cars or trailers. It seems like I'll save a LOT by doing it myself too.

Any thoughts on how difficult? Any special tools required? Maybe some pointers "how to" posts or videos?

I believe that I have 3,500 lb Dexter axles with 10" drums. I'd prefer to go with self adjusting - current ones are manual.

Also, is it simpler to replace the whole hub/drum assembly vs just the brake kit assembly?

Appreciate thoughts/help.

Daniel.

Can I ask why you are replacing the drum? Are they worn down?

[Lwiddis]

You should learn from an experienced person. Don’t wing it alone on the first time IMO.

[bgum]

Replace the complete axle and brakes. Cost will be a little more but easier and quicker. Any decent trailer shop can do it for you. It will cost about $75 more per axle for a complete new job. Labor may be less.