Converting Electric Brakes to Electric Over Hydraulic Disc Brakes 2006 Heartland Big Horn 5th Wheel

Question:

Hi, I have a 2006 Heartland Big Horn, 33foot long 5th wheel trailer 3055rl. It seems that I cant get it to have enough stopping power with electric brakes. I am looking at doing a disc brake conversion but needed your professional advice on puchasing the right kit. The trailer has 2, 6000 lb Lippert axles. The bot pattern is 8 by 6.5 with 16inch rims. What all do I need and where is the best place to purchase the kit. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

asked by: Jerry K

Expert Reply:

We can certainly help you with the components you will need in order to convert your trailer to electric over hydraulic disc brakes. To convert your brakes, you will want to add disc brake hub/rotor assemblies, an electric over hydraulic actuator, and a brake line kit to your trailer.

For a disc brake kit that will match your 8 on 6-1/2 inch bolt pattern and fit on your 6,000 pound axles, I recommend the Kodiak Disc Brake Kit with 13 Inch Hub/Rotor and 8 on 6-1/2 Bolt Pattern # K2HR712E. These hub/rotor assemblies are designed to work with 16 inch and larger wheels, like those on your trailer. This kit comes with 2 hub/rotor assemblies, to convert 1 trailer axle. You will want 2 kits to convert both axles on your trailer. These hubs use # 25580 inner bearing and # 14125A outer bearings, and # RG06-070 grease seal. The bearings and seal are not included with the hub/rotor kit, but can be purchased together in part # BK3-200.

The electric over hydraulic (EOH) actuator that I recommend is the Hydrastar EOH Actuator for Disc Brakes, 1,600 psi # HBA16. The Hydrastar features an extruded aluminum construction to resist corrosion and provides a weatherproof exterior. Hydrastar is an industry leader for EOH actuators. This actuator has one of the fastest response times on the market and we have found it to be very reliable. I have attached a review video of this EOH actuator for you.

You will want to run brake lines on your trailer for the hydraulic disc brakes. Brake lines come in different lengths to accommodate different length trailers. The kits are measured in the distance from the actuator to the front axle. If you find you need a brake line kit with 20 feet of initial line, the Kodiak Hydraulic Brake Line Kit, Tandem Axle, 20 Foot # 20TA-BLKIT is a great option. I have linked all of our brake line kits for you.

Since your trailer previously had electric brakes, it should already have a breakaway battery. The Hydrastar EOH Actuator # HBA16 is compatible with any standard breakaway kit.

Some aftermarket brake controllers are compatible with EOH actuators, but not all of them. The Hydrastar # HBA16 product page has a list of the brake controllers that are compatible with the actuator. If you do not already have a compatible brake controller, I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885. The Prodigy P2 features a digital LED display, 3 boost levels, and continuous diagnostics.

I have attached a help article on adding electric over hydraulic disc brakes to a trailer for you.