Can Electric Drum Brakes be Added to a 1993 Jayco 1206 Trailer

Question:

I have a 1993 Jayco 1206 which I just purchased and I want to add trailer breaks to it as my towing vehicle requires them for the towing weight .... which has a dry weight of just over 2400 lbs so I am assuming it has a 3500 lb axel possibly the dexter torflex? However the rim size is 10 in so I realize the 10 in hubs will not fit it as the smallest rim size is about 14 inches for those. My question is, is it possible to use the 7 inch breaks which your website advises is for a 2000 lb axel. I noticed that the weight limit on those is 1750 which put together appears to be the 3500 lb limit? if not what would be the best course of action? Sorry Im a little at a loss here, thanks for your help!!!

asked by: Corey E

Expert Reply:

There are a few things to consider when adding electric brakes to a trailer. The first thing to check is if the axle has brake mounting flanges to attach the brake assemblies to. Flanges are welded to the axles and look like # 4-44-1. If you do not see brake mounting flanges they have to be welded on.

Welding on brake mounting flanges is a precision job that requires a special jig and someone with experience performing the installation.

If the trailer does have flanges then note the bolt hole mounting pattern.

If the trailer has flanges and a mounting pattern that matches brake assembly mounting patterns then you can look at replacing the hubs with hub and drum assemblies. To do that I would need to know the inner and outer bearing numbers stamped into the sides of the bearings.

Once I know the bearings and can select the proper drums we can determine what size wheels will fit. If needed you may have to go to a larger wheel. Going with smaller brakes and drums may not be an option and will also not provide adequate braking for the trailer.

The trailer will need some additional wiring by adding a 7-Way trailer connector such as # H20046. The vehicle will also need to have a 7-Way trailer connector and a brake controller. I would need to know the year, make, and model of the vehicle and the type of trailer connector it currently has to make some recommendations.

I have included a link for you that covers parts needed to add electric drum brakes to a trailer.