What Parts Are Needed to Convert To Disc Brakes on a Torsion Axle

Question:

Hi Conner, I finally had a chance to take a look at my trailer hub bearings. Unfortunately the bearing numbers were unreadable. I was able to measure the shaft diameter, where the inner and outer bearing seat. I am looking for a disk brake kit to replace my current drum setup Current drum part #? AL-KO 7230 inner bearing shaft diameter: 1.375 outer bearing shaft diameter: 1.063 bearing spread A - inner bearing face to outer bearing face: 3.220 bearing spread B - inner bearing face to outer thrust washer face: 3.345 4 bolt break mount spread: 2.831 x 2.831 Wheel specs: 5x4.5, R14.00

asked by: Jerad

Expert Reply:

The axle capacity is usually stamped into the centerline of the axle or placed on an information sticker in that same location. With that being said, the axle capacity is not necessary needed if you can provide me with the inner and outter bearing numbers or the diameters of the spindle where they seat. This is the most important bit of information that is needed. Please keep in mind that I would also need to know what size wheels you have on your trailer.

Once you can provide me with this information I would be glad to recommend the parts you need to convert to disc brakes.

expert reply by: Conner L

Jerad

4/23/2018

Conner L.

4/23/2018

I spoke to my contact at Dexter Axle and they informed me that the AL-KO part "7230" is a 10" diameter drum that uses an L68149 inner and a L44649 outer bearing. Therefore, the inner bearing seat should have measured 1.378" not 1.375". In order to convert the hydraulic drum brakes you have on your trailer to hydraulic disc brakes you will need a disc brake assembly and a brake actuator rated for use with disc brakes. For this, I recommend the Kodiak Disc Brake Kit part # K2HR35D and the Dexter Brake Actuator part # 099-175-20. The dacromet finish on the brakes and zinc plating on the actuator will work well to resist both rust and corrosion on your boat trailer. I have attached a review video on each item for you as well.