[sdbob]

I want to replace my open trailer brake magnets.Mine are 45yrs old. What are the best product for the money? I see on net different ads, various prices. Thanks Bob

[SRR]

When one of my magnets failed I went to an RV place and the guy told me it was more cost effective to just replace the whole backing plate to include the brake assembly which at the time was around $60.00

[sdbob]

Thanks. I did that on enclosed trailer I had and sold. My brake shoes are almost new on this trailer.

[Bills Auto Works]

Originally Posted by SRR

When one of my magnets failed I went to an RV place and the guy told me it was more cost effective to just replace the whole backing plate to include the brake assembly which at the time was around $60.00

I would also suggest doing this!

Normally the magnets fail for 2 reasons...One the little spring clip that holds it to the actuating rod gets weak or comes out, allowing the magnet to rock back & forth on the actuating rod. This wears down the rod & even when you put a new magnet on it, you will still have the same problem! If you could buy the magnet with the clip AND the actuating rod together then I would say leave the brake pads & backing plate on there....to my knowledge, you cannot! Number 2 reason the magnets go bad is because you are using a JUNK brake controller! (obviously the OP is not, because they have lasted a long time.) For those who continually have issues with magnets failing...Buy a good Tekonsha controller & do not set the initial settings (usually 1-4) too high for the weight of your trailer. Stay lower on that setting & add gain depending on the weight of the load (this is usually controlled by the "thumb knob")

I pull my trailers for my business 120-155k miles per year transporting everyone's toys all over the country & I can't remember the last time a magnet failed. There are times when I changed loaded backing plates because of my anal maintenance schedule, more than wear on the actual pieces! I do not enjoy breakdowns & since I am not homeless... I like getting home to work on my cars, spend time with the wife & sleeping in my own bed!


God Bless
Bill
https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/...closed.614419/

[necdb3]

Originally Posted by SRR

When one of my magnets failed I went to an RV place and the guy told me it was more cost effective to just replace the whole backing plate to include the brake assembly which at the time was around $60.00

X2, I did the same.

[Trulyvintage]

Originally Posted by sdbob

I want to replace my open trailer brake magnets.Mine are 45yrs old. What are the best product for the money? I see on net different ads, various prices. Thanks Bob

Have you done anything else in the past (45) years
to the trailer braking system ?

If not - you are long overdue on scheduled
maintenance.

My current all aluminum enclosed custom
car hauler trailer is getting new brake
backing plates - wheel bearings - seals
along with brake drums this Saturday.

Preventative maintenance is a must.

See @ http://forums.maxperformanceinc.com/...hlight=Trailer


Jim