Disc Brake Kits for Converting ShoreLandr Tandem Axle Boat Trailer to Disc Brake Operation

Question:

I have a 1995 shore lander boat trailer with dual axles. with 10inch drum brakes on the 1 back axle and would like to convert to disc brakes ,but not sure which kit to buy. My hitch/activator is a Dico co. 10,000# 800# tongue wt.. I have 14inch wheels and tires, 5 lugs with 2.5space lug to lug or 4.5inch between the 2 lugs farthest apart. also have a 10inch backing plate with a 4 bolt pattern to the axle. The boat wt. is about 5,000 #. Can you figure out which kit I would need with this info. Thanks for any info. on this!

asked by: Floyd S

Helpful Expert Reply:

Installing disc brakes on your trailer that has drum brakes now will require new brake assemblies and also a new actuator that can provide the higher hydraulic pressure needed by disc brakes. You can stay with a straight hydraulic setup like you have now or you can install an electric-over-hydraulic (EOH) actuator that works with an electric trailer brake controller in the tow vehicle the way electric drum brakes do.

I linked two articles for you, one covering each of those two disc brake setups. These will walk you through the whole process and tell you all the items needed for each type. I also linked our main page for disc brakes that work with 14-inch wheels.

Brake kits should be selected to match the axles' weight rating. Usually this figure can be found on a sticker or tag on the axle beam itself, or you can check with ShoreLand'r using the trailer's VIN to confirm the axles installed on it.

expert reply by: Adam R