Parts Needed to Convert 6K Axles from Hydraulic to Electric Drum Brakes

Question:

I have 2 6k axles I picked up at an auction for my trailer but they have hydraulic brake setup that I would like to switch to electric, theres nothing to say what brand the axles are, only a sticker on the back of the brake backing plate that says TITAN warrants the braking systems, so I was wondering if the Dexter electric brake assembly would work as a replacement on these axles and if I can use the same drum assembly that is on them or do I have to switch them out also. Thanks

asked by: James M

Expert Reply:

We can help you convert your 6K-rated hydraulic brake axles over to electric drum brakes. Electric brakes are less costly to install and easier to maintain than hydraulics and more and more we're seeing boat trailer makers in particular installing electric brakes as OEM equipment. The linked article will be of interest as it covers the process of adding electric brakes to a trailer.

A 6K axle typically uses 12 x 2-inch drum brakes that have a 5-bolt brake flange mounting pattern but a few will also have a 4-bolt pattern, such as Dexter # 23-105-09 and # 23-106-09. The linked page displays all 6K electric brakes. Some originally-hydraulic hubs cannot be used with electric brakes if their inner armature surface will not mate with the magnets. You can let me know the hub part number and I can then check with Titan or Dexter for compatibility. Or tell me your hub's inner and outer bearings and their wheel bolt pattern and I will be happy to recommend new hubs that will work great with your new brakes.

You will need a wiring junction box kit like # HS381-9000 and some additional 10-gauge wire # 10-1-1 to wire the brakes on the trailer. Brake magnets are not polarized so either brake wire can be grounded to the frame and the other routed to the junction box.

You will also need a brake controller in the tow vehicle. For a budget proportional controller I like the Primus IQ from Tekonsha, part # TK90160, but for easier operation you might prefer the P2 # 90885 or the feature-packed P3 # 90195 which offers storable settings and a nicer display.