Replacing Hydraulic Disc Brakes on Boat Trailer

Question:

I am trying to figure out if I can change from ufp-42 calipers to kodiak brand. How can I tell if the hub from kodiak will fit? Can I add the over hub on the second axle to have braking capabilities on all 4 axles? Would I need to change the master cylinder if I do either of these options? Thanks!

asked by: Spencer O

Expert Reply:

If you are just needing to replace the calipers on your trailer, I recommend staying with the same brand/manufacturer that you currently have. Calipers are not very interchangeable between manufacturers.

If you are looking to replace the entire hub/rotor assembly with Kodiak parts, you will first want to note the axle capacity on your trailer along with the bolt pattern of your existing hubs. I have attached an article that explains how to measure your bolt pattern. If you do not know the axle capacity on your trailer, this information should be listed somewhere on the axle itself, usually on a sticker or plate.

Next you will need to know the inner and outer bearing numbers on your current hubs. You can pull your hubs off and check for the number that should be stamped onto the bearings. You can also measure the spindle at a few locations for the corresponding bearing size. I have included an image that labels where these measurements will be taken. I recommend using a digital caliper like # PTW80157, as the measurements will need to be exact.

For example, the Kodiak Disc Brake Kit # K2HR35D that you are looking at is designed for 3,500 pound axles and features a 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern. It uses the # L68149 inner bearing and # L44649 outer bearing. I have included a short video review on this kit so you can see exactly what all is included. I have also attached an article on disc brakes that you might find helpful. This will explain what you will need if you decide to add brakes to the other axle on your trailer.