What is the difference between off-road and standard brake magnets?
You may be asked if you have standard or off-road brakes when replacing your electric trailer brakes. This almost always refers to your magnets.
Brake magnets are attached to an actuating arm on the electric backing plate.
The actuating arm features a pivot on its top side and a magnet on its bottom.
Off-road magnets increase longevity on corrugated surfaces. Interestingly, Couplemate™ has found that many off-road campers and caravans don’t feature off-road magnets despite being for the Australian outback.
Standard magnets rattle on the steel actuating arm, causing the arm to cut itself into the steel magnet housing.
The off-road magnet, on the other hand, features a plastic insert that eliminates rattling and enhances the cutting action.
We recommend checking the health level of your current magnet and the condition of your brake drums to determine which type you need. If you are ever unsure, don’t hesitate to contact our expert team.
How to tell if you have a Standard Magnet
Standard magnets have wear indicators in the North, South, East, and West positions.
The magnet centre is cross-shaped with a a clip that secures the magnet into position.
How to tell if you have an Off-Road Magnet
Standard magnets have wear indicators parallel to the magnet.
The magnet centre has a single slit, which doesn’t require a spring clip.
Off-road magnets are supplied with a rubber band wrapped around the magnet and spring.
This rubber band positions the magnet in the correct location on the backing plate, allowing easy installation of the brake drum.
The rubber band snaps on the first braking application, allowing the brakes to function normally.
Need a Picture? See the infographics below.
Couplemate™ offers both standard and off-road electric magnets in two sizes:
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