Are Electric Brakes Made Specifically for Boat Trailers?

Question:

I see that you offer galvanized axles and brake drums specifically for boat trailer use. I did not see any electric brake assemblies magnets, shoes, the rest of the mechanism that were specifically for boat trailers. I was wondering if they exist and/or if the mechanisms for surge brake hubs are made of different better materials to better deal with submersing in saltwater? Or perhaps there are regular and boat grade surge hub units? The internal brake hub mechanisms are not accessible to do an effective freshwater wash down after use and I am worried about corrosion related problems there - more so than momentarily wetting the electrical wiring and connections which was mentioned elsewhere on your site lights and their wires get wet all the time. Also, since the axle is relatively easy to wash down there would seem to be less advantage to having it galvanized vice plain or painted. Thank you very much for your thoughts and knowledge on this matter.

asked by: Scott F

Expert Reply:

Though there are not electric brakes made specifically for boat trailers, though there are electric brakes with backing plates that are E-coated to resist corrosion, such as # AKEBRK-35-SA. The coating is also used on backing plates for hydraulic drum brakes such as # AKFBBRK-35-D. People can (and do) use electric brakes on boat trailers, though it is recommended that they be disconnected before backing into the water and, as you mentioned, hosing them down after being immersed in salt water.

If you are worried about corrosion, your best option would be a disc brake kit that is designed for resisting corrosion, such as # K2R35D, which has a 300 hour salt-spray rating, ideally suited for boat trailers like yours that are going to be in salt water. You would also need a brake actuator and brake line kit to add disc brakes; I've added links to an install video and help article on disc brakes for you to take a look at as well as a link to our selection of trailer brakes.

expert reply by: Kyle S