Converting Boat Trailer from Hydraulic Surge Brakes to Electric Drum Brakes
Question:
I would like to install electric brakes on my 2001 Matercraft ski boat trailer that is currently set up with tongue actuated hydraulic surge breaks . The trailer has two 2500 pound capacity axels. I am looking for someone to put together a list of part I will need for this job. Axel Details Henschen Ind. DURA-FLEX Capacity = 2500 lbs Serial Number = 2-529573 JACKSON CTR 0-45334 I am happy to provide additional detail about the trailer if needed. Regards.
asked by: Ben T
Expert Reply:
Boat trailers more and more are being supplied with electric drum brakes as standard OEM equipment since they cost less and are much easier to install than hydraulics. The electric drum brake conversion is popular enough that we created an article that recaps all the items needed and the things to consider. I linked that article for you. It includes a table that lists the required items.
You can either replace your surge coupler with a standard fixed one or simply drill a hole through it horizontally to let you install a long bolt to immobilize it. You will also need a wiring junction box like # HS381-9000, this will provide a connection point for the trailer light wiring and the brake circuit wiring to join the 7-way plug. You will need brake assemblies in the size to match your hubs. Electric brakes are sized based on their weight rating; 3K brakes like # K23-472-473-00 fit 10 x 2-1/4-inch hub/drums while 2K brakes and 2.2K brakes are 7 x 1-1/4-inch and fits hubs of that size.
You will want to note the brake flange mounting pattern so you can select compatible brakes that will bolt up. 3K-rated 10-inch brakes use a 4-bolt brake flange
Most hub/drums can be used with either hydraulic or electric drum brakes but some may be for use with only one or the other type; check your hubs for any such indications. If you need new hub/drums they must use the same set of bearings as the original hubs to ensure they will fit on your spindles.
You will also need a breakaway kit to energize the brakes in the event of an accidental disconnect of the trailer. An example is part # 20099 from Hopkins.
You will also need a trailer brake controller for the tow vehicle. I suggest the easy-to-use and reliable Prodigy P2 # 90885. If you tell me your vehicle information I can check for an easy-install wiring adapter for the controller. Some vehicles offer simple plug-in installation.
Products Referenced in This Question
Hopkins Engager Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit w/ Built-In Charger - Side Load - 7" Wire
- Trailer Breakaway Kit
- Kit with Charger
- Side Load
- Single-axle
- Tandem-axle
- LED Tester
- Hopkins
more information >
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Dexter Electric Trailer Brakes - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3,000 lbs
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Standard Grade
- Manual Adjust
- 10 x 1-1/2 Inch Drum
- 3000 lbs Axle
- 13 Inch Wheel
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- Dexter
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Wiring Kit for Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuators
- Accessories and Parts
- Brake Actuator
- Disc Brakes
- Hydraulic Drum Brakes
- Wiring
- Hydrastar
more information >
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