Parts Needed to Convert 10 Inch Hydraulic Trailer Brakes to Electric Brakes

Question:

Currently have Atwood Hydraulic 10inch Drum Brakes. Wanting to go elec. Is there a particular version I need to go with?? Not brand loyal. Will AKEBRK-35-SA work for this application?

asked by: Lance

Expert Reply:

The first thing to check are the drums. Some drums can be used with both electric and hydraulic drums but not all of them. It may indicate if they work with both on the actual drum. If you are not sure then it is safer to also replace the hub and drum assemblies. I will cover that below.

If the drums are compatible with electric brakes then the 10 inch etrailer brakes, # AKEBRK-35-SA, will work if the brake mounting flanges the brakes attach to have the 4-bolt mounting pattern.

You will also need to run wiring to the brake magnets. An easy way to do this is to add a 7-Way trailer connector such as # HM20048. The vehicle will also need to have a 7-Way connector and a brake controller to activate the trailer brakes. For that I would need to know the year, make, and model of the vehicle and whether or not it has a trailer connector and, if so, what kind of connector it has. For a brake controller I recommend the P2 # 90885 because it is easy to set up and use and it is reliable.

If the drums do need to be replaced then I would need to know the inner and outer bearing numbers stamped into the sides of the bearings along with the bolt pattern of the wheels. Then I can recommend some drums that will fit and work with the brakes.

I have included links to some help articles that should also assist you in this project.