Is There Such Thing As Free-Backing Trailer Surge Brakes
Question:
I have a trailer that will be used on multiple vehicles by different owners. Thus, I can not make assumptions about their wiring, etc. Right now the trailer has surge drum brakes on it which is fine but the brakes and actuator are shot and need to be replaced. I would like to change to disc brakes but the only ones I have found require electronic lockout and thus a mod to the vehicle wiring which I cannot do. Is there such a thing as free backing disc brakes? Or is there another solution to this problem that allows me to switch to disc brakes ? Or do I just need to stay with the free backing drum brakes ?? Thanks in advance!
asked by: Henry G
Expert Reply:
Since there's no such thing as a free-backing disc brake setup your best option most likely would be to go with free-backing drum brakes. It's a somewhat expensive option, but if you converted the trailer to electric over hydraulic disc brakes you'd be able to back the trailer up without issues but the vehicles would all have to have brake controllers installed that are compatible with EOH brakes so that may not be best setup either. I attached a help articles on adding brakes to trailers for you to check out as well.
