'72 Safari Brake questions

[72safari23ft]

I just bought a 72 23ft Safari. The tow home was successful, however when I was backing the trailer into the driveway I could hear a clanking and scraping noise. I removed the wheels and hubs to find you most all brake return springs broken. I would like some advice on wether I should replace the springs or the whole back plate. And if replace the back plate should I have the original hubs turned or replace them? One final question, what size of back plates do I have?

[overlander64]

Greetings 72safari23ft!

Welcome to the Forums and the world of Vintage Airstream ownership!

Originally Posted by 72safari23ft

I just bought a 72 23ft Safari. The tow home was successful, however when I was backing the trailer into the driveway I could hear a clanking and scraping noise. I removed the wheels and hubs to find you most all brake return springs broken. I would like some advice on wether I should replace the springs or the whole back plate. And if replace the back plate should I have the original hubs turned or replace them? One final question, what size of back plates do I have?

First, yes, I would suggest installing fully loaded backing plates. This move will give you all new hardware at a cost that is a significant savings over buying pieces separately. You will have the peace of mind knowing that all components are new.

Second, do not condemn your brake drums until they have been inspected. Like automobile/light truck drums they have specifications for minimum thickness, etc.

Third, I would suggest having the drums turned and the shoes machined to match your freshened drums. Prior to owning my Overlander, I would have never known to have this done -- the technician who overhauled my brakes in 1999 insisted that this was necessary for optimum brake performance -- what a difference that one small step made -- smoother, shurer braking and less mechanical noises from the trailer brakes.

Good luck with your coach!

Kevin

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by 72safari23ft

I just bought a 72 23ft Safari. The tow home was successful, however when I was backing the trailer into the driveway I could hear a clanking and scraping noise. I removed the wheels and hubs to find you most all brake return springs broken. I would like some advice on wether I should replace the springs or the whole back plate. And if replace the back plate should I have the original hubs turned or replace them? One final question, what size of back plates do I have?

Your Airstream has 12 inch brakes (backing plates).

While your at it, replace the shocks as well.

You should also consider installing Centramatic balancers.

But before you do anything, check the axles out to make sure they have some life left.

If they don't, then you can replace them and upgrade to new style hub and drums as well as the brakes. Will save you money.

Andy

[72safari23ft]

I greatly appreciate the replies. I will definitely be replacing the backing plates. I have found some that are the correct size. However I can only find them with white wire magnets (6K rating) and mine are green wire magnets (3.5k rating). Will it matter if I install the 6k rated backing plates?

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by 72safari23ft

I greatly appreciate the replies. I will definitely be replacing the backing plates. I have found some that are the correct size. However I can only find them with white wire magnets (6K rating) and mine are green wire magnets (3.5k rating). Will it matter if I install the 6k rated backing plates?

No.

If anything, you may have to back off on the brake controller a little bit.

Andy