Which is Better Disc or Drum Trailer Brakes
Question:
I currently have drum brakes on my old boat trailer, I’m in the process of getting a new trailer built and understand disc brakes have better stopping power but are there any disadvantages that would make going with drums a better choice? Thank you,
asked by: Steve C
Helpful Expert Reply:
Aside from cost the only possible downside that disc brakes have over drum brakes is that they do require the coupler of the trailer to have a reverse lock out solenoid if the trailer has surge brakes. With drum brakes you can use free-backing assemblies to allow the trailer to be backed up without activating the brakes, but with disc brakes that's not possible so you have to have a reverse lockout. This isn't usually a big deal but it's worth mentioning. All-around though disc brakes wins over drum. Better stopping power, longer lasting components, more consistency etc.
I attached two help articles to this page for you to check out that will walk you through adding disc brakes to a trailer. One for if you want to use surge brakes like what are common on boat trailer and another for electric over hydraulic. You should note that the actuator you referenced is only designed for use with drum brakes.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator - Drum - Zinc - 2" Ball - 7,000 lbs
- Brake Actuator
- Surge Brake Actuator
- Straight Tongue Coupler
- Bolt-On
- 7000 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Ball Coupler
- Drum Brakes
- No Lockout
- Demco
more information >
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