AL-KO brakes

AL-KO brakes – how the brake system on your trailer works

Does your trailer have AL-KO brakes? Then you have one of the most widely used brake systems on the market underneath your trailer. Here we explain how AL-KO's brake technology works, which parts are included, and what to consider when it is time for servicing. And yes, we stock the spare parts.

Who are AL-KO?

AL-KO has its roots in Kötz, Germany, and has been developing chassis and brake technology for trailers since the 1930s. Today they are one of Europe's largest suppliers of trailer brake systems. If you own a Brenderup, Variant, Fogelsta, or Respo there is a good chance it has AL-KO brakes on the axles. Their systems are known for being reliable, relatively straightforward to service, and for having spare parts that are readily available.

How an AL-KO wheel brake works

AL-KO's trailer brake system is based on mechanical drum brakes with an overrun device. This means that when the car brakes and the trailer pushes forward, the brake is activated via a mechanism in the ball coupling that pulls on the brake cables. The cables transfer the force to the wheel brakes, where brake shoes are pressed outward against the inside of the brake drum. The resulting friction slows the wheel.

The advantage of the system is that it is entirely mechanical and requires no electricity or hydraulics. This also means that every component in the chain — from the ball coupling and cables to the shoes and drum — needs to function correctly for the brakes to do their job.

The components of an AL-KO brake system

A complete AL-KO brake system consists of several interacting parts. Here are the most important:

• Brake shoes and linings – The part that creates friction against the drum. AL-KO brake shoes are available in several dimensions, including 160×35, 200×35, 200×50 and 230×60, depending on axle weight and brake model. The linings wear over time and are the most common service part.
• Brake drums – The drum sits on the wheel hub and is the surface the brake shoes press against. Wear causes the drum to become uneven and braking performance gradually deteriorates.
• Brake cables – The cables are the link between the overrun device and the wheel brake. They stretch and corrode over time, and the correct length and end fittings are essential for everything to work properly.
• Compact bearings – AL-KO's compact bearings are a popular solution where the bearing and seal sit in an integrated unit. This simplifies replacement and reduces the risk of incorrect fitting.
• Spring kits – The return springs hold the brake shoes in the correct position when the brake is not activated. Tired springs can cause the brakes to drag.
• Backplate (mounting plate) – The fixed plate on which the entire brake mechanism is mounted. This is also where you find the brake ID that identifies your specific brake model.

Common signs that it is time to replace brake parts

Trailer brakes wear gradually and it is not always obvious when something is wrong. Here are some common signals to watch out for:

• The trailer pulls to one side – Uneven wear on brake shoes or a cable that is sticking can cause one side to brake more than the other.
• Longer stopping distance – Worn linings or stretched cables cause braking performance to decrease gradually.
• Scraping or squealing noise – Can indicate that the brake shoes are completely worn and metal is meeting metal.
• Brakes dragging – If the wheels do not spin freely when the unloaded trailer is rolling, springs or cables may need replacing.
• Play or noise from the wheels – Can indicate worn wheel bearings rather than the brake itself, but should always be investigated.

Common brake models from AL-KO

AL-KO has a wide range of brake models. The most common ones you encounter in the Nordic region are:

• AL-KO 2050 / 2051 (200×50)
• AL-KO 2361 (230×61)
• AL-KO 2035 (200×35)
• AL-KO 1637 (160×35)
• AL-KO 2051 AAA

Not sure which model you have? Look for the brake ID stamped on the backplate to identify your specific brake.

Valeryd has the spare parts you need

We stock a wide range of spare parts for AL-KO brake systems, from brake shoes and cables to complete drums and compact bearings. All parts are available and can be ordered directly on our website.