Parts Needed to Convert 5th Wheel Trailer from Electric Drum Brakes to EOH Disc Brakes

Question:

I have a 2016 Montana High Country 293. I am not satisfied at all with the stopping power the 5th wheel has. It has 16inch wheels 8 lugs and a 5 hole mounting bracket for the existing brake system. Is there a kit available to convert from Drum electric to disc elec over hydraulic? Thanks and what is the cost?

asked by: Roger F

Helpful Expert Reply:

We can provide you with all of the parts needed to convert your 2016 Montana High Country 293RK from electric drum to electric-over-hydraulic (EOH) disc brakes. You may care to have a look at the linked article that covers all of the components needed. The article includes links to each product category to help you find what you need.

The overall cost of this conversion is not insignificant but the resulting superior braking performance and reduced maintenance may well make the initial investment worthwhile for you. You can see each item's price on its product page.

Since you have 5-hole brake flanges (the pattern is standardized) you'll just need to note the axle diameter and weight capacity which is usually found on a sticker on the axle. (Your 293RK probably uses 7K 3-inch axles, based on its shipping and gross weights.) You'll also need to note the part numbers for the bearings and grease seal in your current hub/drums. A disc brake kit has to use the same bearings to ensure a proper fit on your spindles. The linked photo shows you the usual location of these part numbers. If you cannot find the part numbers you'll need to use a precision digital caliper like # PTW80157 to measure the spindle at points B, C and D as shown in the photo.

You will also need to plumb the trailer with hydraulic lines between the EOH actuator and the two axles' brake assemblies. Kit # HS496-252 is a 25-foot tandem kit but if you need longer lines just add a union fitting # BH-C-3FIF and additional line. You'll also need to mount an EOH actuator on the trailer such as Dexter # K71-651 and a breakaway kit # 34-285.

Brake kits for 16-inch 8-on-6-1/2 wheels can be seen on the linked page. You can use two of kit # K2HR712 for a cost-effective option. This fits spindles that use inner and outer bearings 25580 and 14125A.

Finally you will have to ensure that you trailer brake controller is compatible with EOH actuators. Not all controllers will work properly with such systems. A unit like the highly-rated Prodigy P3 # 90195 is an excellent choice since it is fully compatible with both electric and EOH braking systems.