Converting Tow Dolly Hydraulic Brakes to Electric Brakes

Question:

My tow dolly has noworking hyd. Brakes line and cylinder on hitch bad. Drum brake. Can i change it over to your ele.brake kit?

asked by: Jeff

Helpful Expert Reply:

You can certainly replace the hydraulic brakes on your tow dolly with electric brake assemblies.

You will first need to determine the bolt pattern that is on the axle brake flanges. Next, you will need to make sure you choose brake assemblies that have the needed capacity for your dolly's axle weight rating. Determining the diameter and width of the hubs/drums will also ensure a proper fit.

For example, the etrailer.com Electric Trailer Brake Assembly # AKEBRK-35L-SA and # AKEBRK-35R-SA are designed for 3,500 pound axles and mount to a flange with a 4 bolt pattern. These brake assemblies measure 10 inches x 2-1/4 inches. I have attached a link that will take you to our available selection of electric brake assemblies that you can look through.

You will just need to run 10 gauge wire like # 10-1-1 (sold by the foot) to each of the brake assemblies.

If you do not yet have a trailer brake controller, I highly recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885. This is a great proportional controller that will activate the dolly's brakes at the same time and with the same intensity that you apply to them in your tow vehicle.

I have also included an article on adding electric brakes to a trailer that you might find helpful.