Parts Needed to Add Disc Brakes on a Tow Dolly  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, it is possible to put hydraulic disc brakes on a tow dolly. We do not offer a kit specifically to add disc brakes on your dolly, but I am happy to walk you through all the parts you will need.

However, there are a couple of things we need to know to choose a disc brake kit for the dolly.You need to know what the weight capacity of the your axle is to make sure you get the correct brake assemblies. If you do not know the capacity, there should be a label or sticker on the axle that lists the weight rating. According to Master Tow their dollies have gross vehicle weight rating of 3,000 to 3,500 lbs, depending on which model tow dolly you purchased. The brake assemblies are rated for axle weight capacity. The assemblies are also designed to bolt up to the axles by bolt pattern on the axle flange. Typically for a 3,500 pound axle, this is a 4 bolt pattern. You will want to check your tow dolly to see if the brake mounting flanges are already welded on, otherwise you will need to have a mounting bracket welded on the axle by a qualified professional.

Titan has a disc brake kit # T2HRCM10DAC that is designed to fit 3,500 lbs axles. The kit includes the rotors, calipers, mounting brackets, and hardware to install on your axles. To engage the disc brakes, you will need to have either a surge coupler or an electric over hydraulic actuator.

If you decide to go with a surge coupler, I recommend the Zinc-Plated Brake Actuator, part # 099-175-20. This brake actuator is designed for use with disc brakes so the correct pressure can be acheived to engage the calipers. This coupler is a bolt on model that will fit a 3 inch channel. If you decide to go with the electric ove hydraulic brake actuator, I recommend the HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator # HBA16. The HydraStar actuator uses the electric signal from your brake controller to actuate the hydraulic pressure to activate the calipers. The HydraStar system will give you faster brake respones and more controll than a the surge brake couplers.I also recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Brake Controller # 90195. The Tekonsha controller is a proportional controller that works with the HydraStar actuator. You will also need a hydraulic brake line kit like # HS496-151.This kit includes a 15 foot main line that connects to the brakes at one end and the surge or electric over hydraulic brake actuator at the tongue of the dolly. These would be parts you will need to setup a hydraulic disc brake system on a tow dolly. However, these systems can be very expensive.

An electric brake system will be more cost effective and provide stopping power for your application. I recommend getting electric drum brakes for 3,500 lbs axles, part # AKEBRK-35R-SA for the right hand side and # AKEBRK-35L-SA left hand side for the electric brake assemblies and 2 of part # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K drum assemblies. The electric brake assemblies will give you excellent braking ability while being more cost effective than a disc brake system. The brake assemblies are self-adjusting. This means that you will only have to adjust your brakes at the time of installation. The drums will include the bearings, seals, new lug nuts, and dust covers needed to install on your axle.

I have included links that will explain what is needed for both electric and a disc brake system.

expert reply by: Jared P

1