Converting to Electric Over Hydraulic Disc Brakes From Electric Brakes on Trailer With 7K Axles

Question:

Thank you My trailer has a break away switch will I need to replace it? Im towing with a 2016 ram 3500 it has the oem brake controller is that compatible?

asked by: Mike A

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are a number of parts you will need to replace the electric drum brakes on your trailer, and though there is not an all-in-one kit I can let you know the parts you need, starting with a disc brake assembly to replace your current hub and drum.

I contacted Lippert with the serial number from you axle and based off what they told me the the correct brake kit is the Kodiak Disc Brake Kit # K2HR712D which is for 7,000 lb axles and has an 8 on 6-1/2" bolt pattern for your wheels. These brakes will fit a 5-bolt brake mounting flange. You are also going to need the Bearing Kit for Disc Brakes with 13" Hub/Rotor and 1/2" Bolts # DBRKHW7 which has the correct bearings and grease seal for your trailer's spindle.

There is a kit that includes the electric over hydraulic actuator, brake lines and breakaway kit. The electric over hydraulic actuator needs to be rated for use with disc brakes and requires a higher psi; for this I recommend the HydraStar Electric-Hydraulic Actuator w/ Line Kit for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi # CAR-HBA16-2.

This kit includes everything you need for the rest of the installation and is compatible with most aftermarket brake controllers as well as OEM brake controllers though some require an adapter. If you need a brake controller and let me know the year, make and model of tow vehicle I'd be happy to recommend one for you. I would also need to know if you have brake controller wiring, a factory tow package and a 7-way already run.

I have added links to video reviews for you to take a look at, as well as a help article on everything needed to add electric over hydraulic brakes which I recommend checking out.

expert reply by: Kyle S

Mike A.

3/20/2019

Thank you My trailer has a break away switch will I need to replace it? Im towing with a 2016 ram 3500 it has the oem brake controller is that compatible?

Kyle S.

3/20/2019

Since you already have a breakaway kit, so long as it has a 12 volt, 5 amp-hour battery you would not need a new one. You would then need the HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi # HBA16, which is compatible with the OEM brake controller in your 2016 Ram 3500, along with the HydraStar Hydraulic Brake Line Kit - Tandem Axle # HS496-152. This would work with the Kodiak Disc Brake Kit # K2HR712D and Bearing Kit for Disc Brakes with 13" Hub/Rotor and 1/2" Bolts # DBRKHW7 that I mentioned previously. I have added links to video reviews of these parts for you to take a look at.