How to Change and Clean AL-KO 3004 Front & Rear Friction Pads (2026 UK Guide)

Introduction

If your caravan stabiliser isn’t gripping properly or feels loose when towing, worn or contaminated friction pads could be the cause.

The AL-KO AKS 3004 stabiliser hitch uses four friction pads around the towball to improve stability and reduce snaking.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to check, clean, and replace AL-KO 3004 friction pads, including side, front, and rear pads.

🚐 Quick Answer: AL-KO 3004 Pads

• Four friction pads surround the towball

• Side pads move when the handle is pressed

• Front and rear pads remain fixed

• Clean lightly if glazed (temporary fix)

• Replace if worn, smooth, or contaminated

  
  

How the AL-KO 3004 Stabiliser Works

The stabiliser works by applying pressure to the towball:

• Side pads grip the towball when engaged

• Front & rear pads provide constant pressure

👉 This friction reduces sway and improves towing control.

What You’ll Need

• Replacement AL-KO 3004 friction pads (front & rear)

• Small flathead screwdriver

• Small punch

• Small hammer

• 14mm open-ended spanner

• T30 Torx key

• Fine emery cloth

• Brake cleaner

• Clean cloth

👉 The process is the same for red or black handle models.

🔍 How to Check If Your Pads Are Worn

Step 1: Couple the Caravan (Do Not Engage Stabiliser)

Step 2: Check Side Pads

• Locate arrows near the stabiliser handle

• Press the handle down until resistance

  
  

👉 Result: - Arrows within recess → OK

Arrows above recess → Replace

Step 3: Check Front & Rear Pads

Look at the stabiliser indicator:

• Green visible → Pads OK

• Only red visible → Replace

  
  

👉 Unhitch before starting any work.

🧪 Can You Clean AL-KO Pads?

Yes — but only as a temporary fix.

⚠️ When Cleaning Isn’t Enough

Replace pads if:

• They appear smooth or polished

• Contaminated with grease

• Stabiliser feels weak

• You hear unusual noises

  
  

🔧 How to Replace Side Friction Pads

1. Remove Red or Black caps on the side of the hitch

2. Tap out pads using punch

3. Note any shims or washers

4. Clean or replace pads

5. Press new pads firmly into place

6. Refit caps

🔧 How to Replace the Front Pad

1. Remove front red or black cover also known as a soft dock

2. Hold button using 14mm spanner

3. Remove Torx screw on the front center of hitch

4. Remove pad

5. Clean or replace

6. Refit

👉 Tighten to approx. 5Nm

7. Refit the Soft Dock

🔧 How to Replace the Rear Pad

1. Locate rear pad

2. Remove Torx screw

3. Remove pad

4. Clean or replace

5. Refit

🔧 Need Replacement AL-KO 3004 Pads?

If your pads are worn, replacing them is essential for safe towing.

👉 Browse AL-KO 3004 friction pads

👉 View caravan towing accessories

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using grease on friction pads

❌ Not replacing both pads together

❌ Fitting pads incorrectly

❌ Ignoring worn or contaminated pads

👉 Not Sure If Your Pads Need Replacing?

Before replacing, check their condition:

👉 Read: How to Check AL-KO Friction Pads

Summary

• AL-KO 3004 front and rear pads are key for towing stability

• Replacement is a straightforward DIY job

• Always keep pads clean and dry

• Replace worn pads promptly

  
  

FAQs

Can I replace AL-KO 3004 pads myself?

Yes — it’s a simple job with basic tools.

Do I need to replace both pads at once?

Yes — always replace them together for even performance.

How often should they be replaced?

When worn, smooth, or contaminated.

Can I lubricate friction pads?

No — friction pads must always be dry.

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