Greetings openroad!
Welcome to the Forums and the world of Vintage Airstream ownership!
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Originally Posted by openroad also looking for help with my brake problem. I suspect my answer may to just purchase new backing plates,but where?This a 1969model. to my knowledge the bargeman breakaway control,has not had any kind of pin or actuater inmy short history. None of the wheels have brakes that operate.I suspect kaput magnets but how to test? |
Before undertaking replacement of magnets or installing new loaded backing plates, you will want to verify the wiring of your umbilical cord. Since Airstream didn't wire the coach's Bargman connector to the same standard that is utilized by most modern tow vehicles, there are often issues with wiring the trailer's Bargman connector to match the tow vehicle. The breakaway switch will need to be replaced - - it is possible to find the large cylinder type with some searching, but the more modern pastic cased component will function in the same manner. Once you have determined that the wiring is functioning properly, and that you have power to brakes when the tow vehicle controller is applied or when the pin is pulled on the breakaway then it is safe to proceed with new magnets or loaded backing plates.
If you decide to go with loaded backing plates, you shouldn't have too much difficulty finding them as they are far from unique to Airstream. The brakes were typically Kelsey Hayes which were an industry standard utilized by many manufacturers. My local Fleetwood dealer was able to install new loaded backing plates on my '64 Overlander when it had an unexplained failure that prevented the coach from being towed to my regular Airstream dealer.
Good luck with your project!
Kevin