Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Shorelander Boat Trailer with 2,200 lb Axle

Question:

I am thinking of outfitting my boat trailer with electric drum brakes. How do I determine which parts to buy? The trailer is a Shorelandr and carries a 19 Glastron SSV with a 150HP outboard motor, total weight about 2200lb, I think. Wheels are 14.

asked by: Bob

Expert Reply:

To determine the correct parts for adding electric brakes to your trailer with idler hubs you will need to determine if your axle has a brake mounting flange and its bolt pattern.

If the axle has a brake mounting flange then it most likely has a 4 bolt pattern. If there is not a brake mounting flange you would need to change out the axle. This would require special ordering an axle with a brake mounting flange installed on it. You could have brake mounting flanges welded to your existing axle but a professional trailer manufacturing facility would need to be employed to undertake this precise installation. Cost would probably be a wash between a new axle and having a mounting flange welded to the axle.

Once the brake mounting flange is figured out , you will need to determine the correct hub that will mount on the spindle on your axle. To do this you will need to know the bearing part numbers, and seal part number, or the measurements of your spindle. I put together a drawing showing where part numbers are located, and where measurements need to be taken if part numbers are not evident.

Once the spindle parts are determined, a hub can be selected to match the bearings. A complete new kit can be ordered with hub/drum, bearings, seal and grease cap. Separate parts can be ordered in many instances. You need to make sure the hub ordered will work inside your 14 inch wheels and that the bolt pattern of the hub is the correct size.

Now a brake assembly, with the correct bolt pattern for the mounting flange and the correct diameter and width brakes, can be ordered for the hub/drum assembly.

Finally, you will need a brake controller and wiring for your vehicle and the trailer. For your 2005 Nissan Frontier, I recommend the P-3 Trailer Brake Controller, # 90195, along with the Brake Controller 7 & 4 Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7, and a 4-Way connector, # 118263, if you do not already have one.

For the trailer, I recommend an appropriate length of 10 gauge double bonded wire, 10-2-1, and the 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector, # PK12706, to change out the connector and add the trailer brake wiring.