Can Stainless Steel Brake Assemblies Attach to Galvanized Steel Mounting Flange

Question:

I am installing Kodiak stainless brakes on an older galvanized steel boat trailer and am concerned about galvanic corrosion of the brake flange that is welded to the axle. Is an electrical isolator between the steel brake flange and the stainless backing plate recommended? Also, are galvanized or stainless bolts recommended between the brake flange and backing plate if stainless, is an electrical isolation washer recommended against the steel flange? or perhaps a sacrificial galvanized washer against the steel flange instead?

asked by: Bert

Expert Reply:

In general if you are in a situation with atmospheric conditions of moderate to mild humidity, contact between a galvanized steel surface and a stainless steel is unlikely to cause substantial incremental corrosion. Only under extreme humidity would this be an issue. I wouldn't worry about it if I were you. We've yet to hear about an issue from any of our customers either.

expert reply by: Jameson C