Help with new running gear, brakes etc

[Eli76]

Hi folks. I'm new to the forum and in need of help in identifying running gear parts that I need to replace and any parts you think could be refurbished/ renovated. I'm in the UK renovating a 1976 Sovereign. Part replacement will depend on budget at the moment, but here are the parts I'm looking at:

1. New brake actuator (thinking of the Carlisle Hydrastar)
2. Breakaway (which one)
3. Brake controller (which one and how to wire)
4. Rotors (which ones do I need)
5. Calipers (which ones do I need)
6. brake lines (suggestions)
7. bearings (think I've identified the ones I need)

The axles could do with replacing - they are sitting at horizontal. But shipping to the UK would be prohibitively expensive. In fact, most of the above might just be too expense considering shipping and customs fees etc. But your help and advice is appreciated.

I'll attach photos of the wheel assembly I dismantled today. What can be saved and what should be replaced? Any recommendations on where to go for best prices?

[Eli76]

some more photos...

[Eli76]

overview

[Action]

Rotors could be machined if they are not too thin and the equippment is available. (a Brake lathe)
The calipers can be rebuillt with a kit. The kit is far less expensive and weighes a lot less so shipping from the US will will be less. It requires more labor and my guess that time isn't the biggest factor.

Brake lines and wheel bearings should be availble locally.

>>>>>>>>>>>>Action

[4RXLA]

You have the original Ausco Disc brakes. Inland RV in Corona CA is/was the only carrier of replacement pads and some parts for these brakes which have long since been discontinued. The Carlisle 1600 actuator is a good replacement but most everyone will suggest you replace the disc brakes with electric drums that will come with your new axles. Given you are in Europe, I would suggest that as well. Cheaper in the long run, easier to service and parts are easier to find. With electric drum brakes, any brake control will work.

[frankrightbrain]

Was delighted to find my '78 Sovereign has had electric drum brakes replacing the Vaccuboost brakes. Modifying a tow vehicle with the vac connector at the rear bumper limits you to one tow vehicle, or mods for others. Electric brake parts should be available locally also.

[frankrightbrain]

If you decide to return to original design, the rotors will have "Minimum Thickness" cast into it. Most brake shops will be able to resurface the rotors.

[4RXLA]

I noticed in your 5th photo that the outside edge of the rotor is thinner than the inside edge. I don't recall mine being like that and I think the thickness should be similar. The picture of the brake pad definitely shows wear and they need replacing. I have the original Ausco system and picked up a couple of complete rotor assemblies for spare parts. Inland RV does show the replacement pads on their website. You would need the Carlisle 1600 actuator. The brakes do rattle quite a bit as the pads jingle around on the pins but when the brakes are engaged the rattle should stop. If it doesn't then you have a malfunctioning brake.

[Eli76]

Thanks a lot guys. I appreciate the help. I'd like to refurbish the calipers if possible, so will contact Andy and see if he has the parts (or if there are any other suppliers you know of please let me know).

The rotors have uneven wear on them but are so badly rusted on the surface I can't see any minimum wear indicators. Does anyone know what the minimum thickness limit is? The pads are obviously well beyond their service limit and if I can still get replacements then that would be great.

Can anyone comment on what's involved in wiring in the brake controller? I've no idea. I mean, can it be wired into the same 7 PIN connector that links the towing vehicle to the trailer? (in Europe this is a 12N, 7 pin plug that controls brake lights etc). If not, which wires on the towing vehicle is the controller connected to? I won't have a permanent towing vehicle, so it would be better if I were able to wire the controller to make it compatible with other vehicles. I suspect from what you've said that this may not be possible.

Many thanks fellas.

[Eli76]

PS the axles would cost a fortune to ship here from the US, so I'm pretty sure that won't be an option

[Eli76]

Just got a reply from AUSCO, who don't make parts for the AUSCO "on highway" brakes, discontinued in the early 90s. Just waiting on Andy replying about the after market kits that may be available...