Parts Needed to Switch From Surge Brakes to Electric Brakes on Trailer  

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Expert Reply:

I have attached an excellent article below that details all the components needed to add electric brakes to a trailer. You will need new hub drums (most likely), electric brake assemblies, and wiring including a 7-Way connector at the front of the trailer.

The exact parts you need where the hubs and brake assemblies are concerned will depend on the GVWR (weight rating) of your trailer along with the bearing sizes that your existing hubs use. If you can tell me your trailer's weight and the inner and outer bearing numbers on your hubs I will be happy to recommend some specific parts.

For wiring I recommend taking a look at a junction box kit like the etrailer.com # HS381-9000 which includes a 7-Way trailer connector, a wiring junction box, and the needed ring terminals and loom for the wiring. I have attached a couple wiring diagrams that you might also find helpful.

Then on your tow vehicle you will also need a 7-Way connector (if one is not already present) along with a trailer brake controller like the excellent Curt Echo # C51180. I really like this particular controller because of how easy it is to install and operate. It simply plugs into a 7-Way connector on the vehicle and pairs wirelessly to your smartphone via Bluetooth. All of its settings and the manual override is then controlled by your phone so you don't need to install an additional unit in the cab of your vehicle.

If you can tell me what vehicle you have along with what it is already equipped with I can recommend what wiring harness will work best.

expert reply by: Chris R

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