Dexter electric drum brakes use different magnet kits depending on the brake diameter, shoe width and axle capacity. The four photographed replacement kits below have distinct order numbers. The colour of the magnet wires helps identify them, but the installed brake assembly number remains the most reliable starting point.

Original Dexter manufacturer illustration

The original Dexter reference provides the small callout numbers, component orientation and production changes. Select the diagram or photograph below to enlarge it.

Dexter bulletin 389 comparing old and new brake magnet springs and actuating lever arms
Dexter Bulletin 389: magnet spring and lever-arm comparison. Select the image for a full-size view.

Dexter magnet-spring and actuating-lever comparison (PDF)

Find the magnet kit by brake size

Use the complete brake assembly number, size and axle rating. Wire colour alone is not sufficient.

Brake size Typical axle brake rating Dexter magnet kit Wire colour
7 × 1¼ in 2,200 lb K71-057-00 White (7-inch brake, after April 1990)
10 × 1½ in 3,000 lb K71-104-00 Green
10 × 2¼ in 3,500 lb K71-104-00 Green
10 × 2¼ in 4,400 lb K71-125-00 Black
12 × 2 in 5,200–6,000 lb K71-105-00 White
12 × 2 in 7,000 lb K71-125-00 Black

Magnet springs and older brakes

Dexter updated the magnet spring and actuating lever used in these brakes. Older magnet spring 046-080-00 and later 046-175-00 must be paired with the corresponding lever-arm design; changing only one of those two parts can prevent correct assembly. Replacement magnet kits may supply both spring styles. A white-wire kit for a 7-inch brake is not the same as the white-wire kit for a 12-inch brake. Inspect the original brake size and maker part number before ordering.

Use Dexter's official service and installation instructions when working on trailer brakes. Check both sides of the axle, mounting, wiring and the condition of the complete braking system before returning the trailer to service.

Other Dexter parts diagrams

See the matching brake components

These images come from the pictured NewRVParts listings. Select a product to see its order number and additional details.

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