Gear Oil GX 80W-90
Super MP Gear Oil 80W-90
Kendall NS-MP Hypoid Gear
Lube
Lubriplate APG 90
2019.01 | 8

Brake Adjustment Procedure
1. Grease cam bracket and spider fittings.

CAUTION
Care must be exercised to prevent grease from coming in
contact with brake linings which could result in reduced
braking performance.

HEAVY DUTY SERVICE MANUAL

22,500-27,500 LBS. AXLE CAPACITY

lining will seat into a perfect concentric situation.
During this break-in period, the user must be aware
that additional brake adjustments will be mandatory
to achieve optimum braking performance.

2. Adjust the slack adjuster until the brake lining comes
into contact with the brake drum.
A. For green brakes*, there should be a slight amount
of wheel drag at initial adjustment to compensate
for any lining irregularities (high spot, etc.)
B. For burnished or broken-in brakes, back off the
slack adjuster to achieve .030" clearance between
drum and shoes.
3. Apply brakes using normal truck operating pressure
(average line pressure should be 90 psi.).

!

CAUTION

USE OF AIR PRESSURE IN EXCESS OF 130 PSI COULD
RESULT IN FAILURE OF THE AIR CHAMBER OR SPRING BRAKE
CHAMBER AND RESULT IN INJURY.

A. Check the amount of push rod travel. Maximum
should not exceed 2" for Type 30 chambers and
1³⁄₄" for Type 24 chambers.
1) Optimum push rod travel on a green brake*
should be under 2".
2) Optimum push rod travel on a burnished or
broken-in brake should be under 1³⁄₄".
B. With air pressure applied to brakes, check
for lining to drum contact. The contact should
approach 100%. Use a .010" feeler gauge if in
doubt. It should not fit between the lining and
drum during brake application.
C. Check to ensure the lining is inside the drum
during application. More than .06" hanging out of
the drum is not recommended.
4. Release air pressure from the brakes and confirm that
all brakes release to the normal relaxed position.
*Note: A “green brake” is an unground, unburnished
brake. Normal manufacturing tolerances dictate that
there is a break-in period required after which the
2019.01 | 9

Brake Assembly/Disassembly
Although Dexter Axle supplies non-asbestos
brake linings as standard equipment, asbestos
linings may still be found on axles in service.

!

CAUTION

POTENTIAL ASBESTOS DUST HAZARD!
Some older brake linings may contain asbestos dust, which has
been linked to serious or fatal illnesses. Certain precautions
need to be taken when servicing brakes:
1. Avoid creating or breathing dust.
2. Avoid machining, filing or grinding the brake linings.
3. Do not use compressed air or dry brushing for cleaning
(dust can be removed with a damp brush).

16½" x 7" Brakes
Disassembly
1. Block and secure trailer on adequate capacity jack
stands. Follow trailer manufacturers recommendations
for lifting and supporting the unit. Check that the
wheel and drum rotate freely.
2. Release brake and back off slack adjuster.
3. Remove wheel equipment.
4. Remove slack adjuster lock ring and slack adjuster.
5. Remove brake drum (if outboard mount). Remove hub
and drum assembly (if inboard mount).

HEAVY DUTY SERVICE MANUAL

22,500-27,500 LBS. AXLE CAPACITY

Reassembly
1. Install new anchor pin bushings, camshaft bushing
and camshaft seals into the spider.
2. Install cam roller, retainer clip and retractor spring
retainers onto the brake shoes.
3. Install ¹⁄₈" thick camshaft washer onto the camshaft.
4. Install the cam shaft into the spider. Install spacer
washer and lock ring retainer on camshaft before
sliding the camshaft through the camshaft support
bracket. Install the slack adjuster, washer and lock
ring retainer.
5. Install the brake keeper springs onto the shoes. Install
shoes onto the spider by placing shoes in place on
the anchor pins, then “wrap” the two shoes into place
about the spider.
6. Install the shoe retractor spring onto the shoes.
7. Connect slack adjuster to brake chamber push rod.
8. Reinstall wheel equipment per manufacturers
instructions.
9. Adjust brakes as outlined in brake adjustment
procedures.
Note: Always use new springs when servicing brakes.
Always use Dexter shoes when replacing shoes.

6. Disengage the roller retainers from the rollers.

12¼" x 7½" Brakes - P Style

7. Press down on the bottom brake shoe and remove
the lower cam roller. Lift the top shoe and take out
the top cam roller.

Disassembly

8. Lift out the shoe retractor spring, which is now free of
tension.
9. Swing the lower shoe back approximately 180°
to relieve the tension on the shoe keeper springs.
Remove the springs and slip the shoes off the anchor
pins.

1. Block and secure trailer on adequate capacity jack
stands. Follow trailer manufacturers recommendations
for lifting and supporting the unit. Check that the
wheel and drum rotate freely.
2. Release brake and back off slack adjuster.
3. Remove wheel equipment.
4. Remove slack adjuster lock ring and slack adjuster.

10. Remove camshaft lock ring, spacer washer(s) and
camshaft.

5. Remove hub and drum assembly.

11. After removing the shoes, completely inspect all brake
components, servicing as necessary.

7. Remove anchor pin retainers and washers.

6. Remove anchor pin anti-rotation bolt (if applicable).
8. Remove anchor pins and brake shoes.
9. Remove brake return springs.
10. Remove camshaft lock ring, spacer washers(s) and
2019.01 | 10

Brake Assembly/Disassembly
cam shaft.

HEAVY DUTY SERVICE MANUAL

22,500-27,500 LBS. AXLE CAPACITY

from the anchor pin. Remove anchor pin.

11. Remove roller pin retainers.

5. Repeat procedure 4 for the bottom shoe.

12. Remove roller pins, rollers from shoes.

6. Remove brake keeper springs.

13. Remove camshaft bushings and seals from spider.

7. Unwrap bottom shoe by pivoting the shoe on the
camshaft head and twisting the shoe 90° under the
spindle. Remove shoe assemblies from spider.

14. After removing the shoes, completely inspect all brake
components, servicing as necessary.

Reassembly
1. Install new camshaft bushing and camshaft seals into
the spider.
2. Install cam roller assemblies onto the brake shoes.
3. Install “D” shaped camshaft washer onto the
camshaft.
4. Install the camshaft into the spider. Install spacer
washer and lock ring retainer on camshaft before
sliding the camshaft through the camshaft support
bracket. Install the slack adjuster, washer and lock
ring retainer.
5. Install shoes, anchor pins and spacers onto spider.
Install anchor lock rings.
6. Install retractor spring.
7. Tighten anchor pin anti-rotation screw (if applicable).
8. Connect slack adjuster to brake chamber push rod.
9. Reinstall wheel equipment per manufacturers
instructions.
10. Adjust brakes as outlined in brake adjustment
procedures.
Note: Always use new springs when servicing brakes.
Always use Dexter shoes when replacing shoes.

8. Remove slack adjuster lock ring, disconnect slack
clevis, and then remove slack adjuster.
9. Remove camshaft lock ring, spacer washer(s) and
camshaft.
10. Completely inspect all brake components, servicing
as necessary.

Reassembly
1. Install new camshaft bushing. Ream bushing to
1.505/1.515 if required. Install camshaft seals into
the spider.
2. Lubricate roller bore with anti-seize and install new
cam roller assemblies onto the brake shoes.
Note: The head of roller pin should face the camshaft
“D” washer once shoes are installed on spider.
3. Install “D” shaped camshaft washer onto the
camshaft.
4. Install the camshaft into the spider. Install 005-07500 washer and lock ring retainer on the camshaft
before sliding the camshaft through the camshaft
support bracket.
5. Install the slack adjuster and 005-134-00 washer
and 069‑078-00 lock ring retainer for 28 spline
camshafts or 005-075-00 washer and 069-020-00
lock ring retainer for 10 spline camshafts.

12¼" x 7½" Brakes - PQ Style

6. Lubricate anchor pin notches with anti-seize lubricant.

Disassembly

7. Install “W” shaped retractor spring retainer pin
into the 0.50" diameter shoe web holes near the
camshaft roller end of the shoe.

1. Block and secure trailer on adequate capacity jack
stands. Follow trailer manufacturers recommendations
for lifting and supporting the unit. Check that the
wheel and drum rotate freely.
2. Release brake and back off slack adjuster.
3. Remove wheel equipment.

8. Install retractor spring between shoes. Place top shoe
onto spider as in service. Pivot bottom shoe on the
camshaft head and twist the shoe 90° under the
spindle, properly placing shoe on the spider as in
service.

4. Lift top shoe upward to disengage the shoe webs
2019.01 | 11

Brake Assembly/Disassembly

HEAVY DUTY SERVICE MANUAL

22,500-27,500 LBS. AXLE CAPACITY

9. Install two (2) keeper springs on the anchor end of
the shoes.
10. Lubricate anchor pin bores and shoe anchor pins with
anti‑seize lubricant.
11. Repeat procedure 10 for the bottom shoe.
12. Lift top shoe upwards to clear anchor pin hole. Install
anchor pin.
13. Connect slack adjuster to brake chamber push rod.
14. Lubricate cam bushings and slack adjuster.
15. Reinstall wheel equipment per manufacturers
instructions.
16. Adjust brakes as outlined in brake adjustment
procedures.
Note: Always use new springs when servicing brakes.
Always use Dexter shoes when replacing shoes.

2019.01 | 12

Heavy Duty Suspension System (HDSS)
Installation
Responsibility for proper axle alignment lies with the axle
installer. The axle must be installed so that it will be parallel
to the drive axle(s) of the tractor. This will allow good vehicle
control when cornering, longer tire wear, and it will eliminate
dog tracking. Alignment can be determined by measuring
from the center of the trailer king pin to the center of each
end of the axles. The difference should not vary by more
than ¹⁄₁₆". In the case of multiple axles, the axles must
also be in line with each other. The difference between the
centers of one axle and end centers of the other axle must
not vary more than ¹⁄₈".

!

CAUTION

Safety glasses should be worn at all times when assembling or
disassembling axles and their components.

Dexter tubular axles are made of high strength steel for
better fatigue life and superior welding qualities. The round
tubular axles provide a uniform section modulus no matter
how the beam is rotated.
Brake spiders are positioned and welded to specific
requirements at our factory. Welding the spider directly to
the axle beam provides a higher strength and more reliable
brake attachment over bolt-on versions.
In welding suspension components to a Dexter trailer
axle, extreme care must be exercised to obtain correct
location and ensure the spring seat load bearing surfaces
are parallel to each other. Any welding of additional
attachments to the axle should be approved by Dexter’s
engineering department.

To align a four (4) spring suspension, the track arms need
to be adjusted. There is one adjustable track arm (rod) on
each axle; typically on the road (left) side.
Loosen the clamp nuts at each end of the adjusting bolt so
the adjusting rod can rotate (see Figure 1). Align front axle
with the king pin or coupler and adjust rear axle parallel
to the front axle. Be sure to secure the clamps on the
adjustable track arm after alignment (see Figure 1).

22,500-27,500 LBS. AXLE CAPACITY

Before taking axle alignment measurements, make sure the
trailer is unloaded and free the suspension of any binds by
pushing the trailer backwards and then pulling the trailer
forward. While pulling the trailer forward on a level floor, apply
the brakes and release. This will ensure that an adjustable
undercarriage is in its rearmost lock position. The trailer MUST
be level from side to side as well as from front to rear.
Note: Neither service nor parking brakes should be applied
during the measurement procedure.
Ensure the king pin or coupler is at the correct height.
Use axle end extenders (or remove outer wheels and any
obstructions) to achieve a straight line for measuring from
king pin to the axle ends or axle centers.
Proper tools for axle alignment inspection are:
•
•
•
•
•
•

Spring loaded kingpin extender with level or plumbob.
Axle end extenders.
50 foot steel tape.
Optional; adjustable tram.
A means to measure axle center to axle center.
Optional; Extra adjustable track arm (rod) clamp bolts
if required.

Adjust Clamp Bolt / Nut
Tighten to 150 Ft. Lbs.

Adjust Clamp Bolt / Nut
Tighten to 150 Ft. Lbs.

Adjustable Track
Arm (Rod)

Alignment
For safe and efficient trailer operation, to prevent excessive
tire wear off-tracking and hard pulling, it is recommended
that after a short break-in period you have a qualified trailer
mechanic check the alignment.

HEAVY DUTY SERVICE MANUAL

Figure 1

Measuring
See Figure 2.
1. Lateral Centerline (E). Determine lateral centerline
of trailer body and axles by measuring distance E
between trailer and axle centerlines first, and correct
so that distance E is ¹⁄₄" or less for each axle.
2. Thrust Angle (A, B). Measure distances A (curbside)
then B (roadside) from the king pin or coupler to the
front of the axle extension or axle centers. These must
2019.01 | 13

Heavy Duty Suspension System (HDSS)
be equal to within 0.1 degree or ¹⁄₈" of each other (A
= B ± ¹⁄₈"). Ensure the lateral tension (pulling force)
applied to the measuring tape is the same for both A
and B measurements. Use a tensioning device scale
or optical (laser) to ensure accuracy.
3. Scrub Angle (C, D). Measure distances C (curbside)
then D (roadside) between axles, measuring from
front of axle extension to front of axle extension, or
axle center to center. Adjust the rear axle so it aligns
to the front axle. These also must be equal to within
¹⁄₁₆" of each other (C = D ± ¹⁄₁₆"). This measurement
should be as close to zero as possible. The smaller
the offset, the lower the rolling resistance and the
better the fuel economy.
C

HEAVY DUTY SERVICE MANUAL

22,500-27,500 LBS. AXLE CAPACITY

Additional Suspension
Maintenance Check
Track arms should be checked for clearance. If slack is found,
it should be repaired immediately since this indicates that
there is wear in the rubber bushing or track arm parts. Check
the adjustable track arm clamps for proper torque. Loose
clamps will cause wear on the adjusting threads and the
suspension cannot be kept in alignment. On leaf spring type
suspensions, have the trailer checked for axle alignment after
two to three thousand miles.
Check leaf springs for broken leaves. Replace broken
leaves immediately to prevent the other leaves from being
overloaded. On taper leaf springs, be sure the plastic liner
is serviceable and on top of the spring. The liners between
leaves should be in place and serviceable.

Suspension Torque Requirements

A

CAUTION
E
B
D

Figure 2

Adjusting
1. Loosen the adjustable track rod clamp bolts (Figure
1) and turn the center rod to adjust as necessary per
above.
2. After adjusting, tighten the adjustable track rod
clamp nuts (Figure 1) to proper torque. Recheck
measurements and readjust as needed.

Precautions
1. Always measure to the front axle ends for accurate
alignment.

Before torquing equalizer bolts, level equalizers parallel to
main frame members. After initial break-in period (up to 1,000
miles) and at least every 4 months thereafter; all bolts and
nuts should be checked to ensure recommended torque is
being maintained.

Torque Values for Bolts
(With Clean Dry Threads)
Description

Torque
Ft. Lbs.

1¹⁄₈-7 UNC Nut
Oiled
Dry

615
815

1-8 UNC Nut; Dry

350

Spring Keeper Nut
⁵⁄₈-18 UNF; Dry

50

Track Rod Clamp Nut
⁵⁄₈-11 UNC; Dry

150

U-Bolt 3/4-10 UNC Nut; Dry

200

2. Avoid measuring to rims, suspension brackets, hub
cap, vent holes, brake drums, etc. This can result in
improper alignment. For accurate measurements, use
axle extenders.
3. Always align any succeeding axles with the front axle,
not to the kingpin or coupler.

2019.01 | 14

Maintenance

HEAVY DUTY SERVICE MANUAL

22,500-27,500 LBS. AXLE CAPACITY

Brake Component Lubrication

Suggested Preventative Maintenance

A schedule for the periodic lubrication of brake components
should be established by the operator on the basis of past
experience and severity of operation.

Every 1,000 Miles

For camshaft roller journals

Every 12,000 Miles

Lubricate with high temperature anti-seize grease.

Check brake adjustment. Repack wheel bearings (grease
application).

For anchor pins

Check oil level in wheel hub and inspect wheel for leaks.

Lubricate with high temperature anti-seize grease.

Every 25,000 to 30,000 Miles

For manual slack adjusters
Lubricate with NLGI Grade 2.

Check lining wear and estimate reline time. Inspect
camshaft, camshaft spider bushing, and camshaft support
bracket bushing for any signs of wear.

For automatic slack adjusters

Lubricate brake actuating components.

Lubricate with ASA manufacturers’ recommended lubricant.
For Automatic Slack Adjusters

For Manual Slack Adjusters Lubricate with ASA manufacturers'
Lubricate with NLGI Grade 2

recommended lubricant

Every 100,000 Miles, Once a Year,
or at Brake Reline
Replace wheel bearing lubricating oil (if applicable).
Check brake air chambers and slack adjusters. Inspect
brake rollers, roller shafts, anchor pins and bushings, and
replace if necessary.

Anchor Pins and
Roller Journals

Lubricate with high temperature
anti-seize grease

Spider and
Support Bushings

Lubricate with NLGI Grade 2

Frequency of Service
Camshaft roller journals, anchor pins, slack adjusters every
25,000 to 30,000 miles or every six months depending
on severity of service. For off-highway use, service every 4
months depending on severity of service.
Note: Reline shoes or replace with new shoe and lining
assemblies when the linings are grease saturated.

2019.01 | 15

Fastener Specifications
Part Name
Spindle Nut
Inner (lg)
Outer (sm)

Model
D2L__
D2M__
D2H__