Recommended Electric Trailer Brakes for 1977 StarCraft Starmaster 8 Pop-Up Camper

Question:

I have a 1977 starcraft starmaster 8. That I would like to replace with electric brake. Just wondering if you know what brake kits would work with it. Thank you in advance.

asked by: Steve R

Expert Reply:

To change your trailer from surge to electric drum brakes (or to add brakes) you want to choose brake assemblies that have the same width and diameter as your current brakes and that use the same brake flange mounting pattern. You'll also want to choose brakes whose capacity matches the axle's weight rating. Axles usually have a sticker or plate on them to indicate their weight rating. I was able to find the trailer's weight spec - 1480-lbs - and since it sleeps 6 it may well have a 3500-lb axle.

With the above information you can use the linked page to see electric brakes assemblies and choose your axle rating and brake drum dimensions. You'll want to choose a left- and right-hand brake for the axle that has the correct mounting hole pattern. For example, if your brakes are 4-bolt and measure 10 x 2-1/4-inches you can use # AKEBRK-35R-SA and # AKEBRK-35R-SA.

You will also need to wire the trailer for the brakes using 10-gauge jacketed wire # 10-2-1. Either brake assembly wire can be ground or hot; polarity does not matter. A junction box like # 38656 can make it easier to do your wiring connections. You'll also need a brake controller such as the Prodigy P2 # 90885 to activate the trailer brakes when you slow the tow vehicle.

If you care to let me know about your tow vehicle year/make/model/version I can check for availability of a quick-connect brake controller harness for it which would avoid the need to hard wire it. The linked article on adding electric brakes will be helpful in case the trailer currently does not have any brakes on it.