Description
10″ and 12″ Electric Trailer Brake Magnet Retaining Clips (10 Pack)
The 10″ and 12″ Electric Trailer Brake Magnet Retaining Clips provide a reliable and secure way to keep your brake magnets properly positioned within the assembly. Designed to fit both 10″ and 12″ electric trailer brake systems, these clips offer compatibility with a broad range of manufacturers, including AxleTek, Dexter, Lippert (LCI), IAC, and AL-KO. By ensuring your brake magnets remain firmly in place, these retaining clips play a critical role in maintaining consistent braking performance and trailer safety over time.
Why These Magnet Retaining Clips Are Essential
Your trailer’s electric brake magnets create the necessary friction against the drum surface to slow and stop the trailer. Over time, or due to rough conditions, the magnet’s mounting points can loosen, causing the magnet to shift or even detach. This can result in diminished braking power, uneven brake wear, and potentially unsafe towing situations.
By using high-quality magnet retaining clips, you ensure that the magnet remains locked into the correct position, enabling it to function as intended. Properly secured magnets lead to smoother braking action, reduced noise, and more even wear on your brake shoes and drum surfaces. Ultimately, a small investment in retaining clips can save you from costly repairs, increased downtime, and compromised safety on the road.
Features and Compatibility
- Secure Fit: Specially shaped clips hold the brake magnet securely in place, preventing movement that could reduce braking efficiency.
- Broad Compatibility: Designed for 10″ and 12″ electric brake assemblies, these clips work with most major brands, including AxleTek, Dexter, Lippert (LCI), IAC, and AL-KO.
- Durable Construction: Manufactured from high-quality materials to withstand frequent braking, vibration, moisture, and debris common in towing environments.
- Convenient Pack Size: Each purchase includes 10 retaining clips, ensuring you have enough for a full set of brakes or extra pieces for future maintenance.
When and Why to Replace Your Magnet Retaining Clips
Over time, even the most robust hardware in your trailer’s braking system can show signs of wear. Magnet retaining clips are no exception. Constant exposure to heat, friction, dust, and road debris can weaken or deform these clips. When that happens, they may no longer hold the magnet securely, causing erratic brake performance or uneven wear patterns.
You should consider replacing your magnet retaining clips if you notice any of the following:
- Loose Magnets: If the magnet can wiggle or shift when touched, the clip may be worn or bent.
- Abnormal Brake Noise: Unsecured magnets can create scraping, grinding, or rattling sounds as they rub incorrectly against the drum.
- Irregular Braking Performance: Pulling to one side, inconsistent braking pressure, or sudden jerks can indicate a magnet alignment issue caused by a faulty clip.
- Visual Damage: Rust, corrosion, or bending on the clips is a clear signal that they need replacement to ensure proper magnet retention.
Replacing your magnet retaining clips before they fail is a proactive approach that helps maintain the overall health of your brake system. It ensures you continue to experience stable, predictable towing and eliminates the risk of damage to the drum, shoes, and other brake components.
How to Install the Magnet Retaining Clips
Note: Before starting any maintenance or installation procedure, ensure your trailer is parked on a level surface, wheels are chocked, and you have the necessary tools and safety equipment.
- Prepare the Area: Remove the wheel and drum from the trailer’s axle to access the brake assembly. Make sure the brake assembly is clean, and any accumulated dust or debris is cleared away.
- Remove Old Clips (If Present): Carefully inspect the current clips holding the magnet in place. If they are worn, bent, or rusted, remove them using pliers or a flat-head screwdriver. Take note of the position and orientation of the old clip, as this will guide the installation of the new one.
- Align the Magnet: Position the brake magnet so that it sits flush against the brake backing plate and is oriented correctly per the manufacturer’s instructions. Proper alignment is crucial for consistent brake operation.
- Insert the New Clip: Slide or press the new retaining clip into place where the old one was removed. The clip should fit snugly, applying tension to hold the magnet against the backing plate. Ensure it does not interfere with the free movement of other brake components.
- Double-Check Fit and Orientation: Confirm that the magnet is securely held by the clip and cannot move excessively. Spin the hub assembly by hand (with the drum reinstalled) to check for any unusual contact or rubbing sounds.
- Reassemble the Wheel: Once you are satisfied with the clip’s placement and magnet stability, reattach the drum and wheel. Torque the lug nuts according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Performing a short test drive is advisable after installation to confirm that the brakes engage smoothly and quietly, and that there is no pulling or uneven braking.
Maintaining Your Magnet Retaining Clips
While these clips are designed to be durable and low-maintenance, periodic checks can prolong their lifespan. During routine brake inspections (recommended every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first), examine the clips for signs of wear or corrosion. Clean away any brake dust or debris that may accumulate around the clips and magnet to ensure they continue functioning as intended. If you find any damage, swapping out the old clip with a spare from your 10-pack ensures you’re always prepared for quick maintenance.
Conclusion
Investing in 10″ and 12″ Electric Trailer Brake Magnet Retaining Clips is a simple yet impactful step in safeguarding the performance and reliability of your trailer’s braking system. By ensuring the magnet remains securely in place, these clips help maintain smooth, predictable braking action, reduce component wear, and increase the overall safety of your towing experience. With an ample supply of 10 clips and compatibility across major brake assembly brands, you’ll have both the peace of mind and the convenience you need to keep on rolling.
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