Best Practices When Using Electric Boat Trailer Brakes in Salt Water Applications

Question:

Is it advisable to add fresh water flush fittings to the backing plates if being used in saltwater

asked by: Cole B

Expert Reply:

When using brakes like the Electric Trailer Brake Assembly part # AKEBRK-35L in a saltwater environment it would be a great idea to add fresh water flush outs. Generally in a marine application you will see hydraulic brakes being used to eliminate some of the moving components and reduce the risk that corrosion will cause issues.

Fresh water is certainly better than salt water sitting on them but after the flush since your already crawling on the ground the get in there I would blow them out with some compressed air. This will at least help in keeping them from corroding.

A good treatment with some LubriMatic White Lithium Grease part # L11354 is a really good idea in your situation. Brush some liberally on all of the moving components and lightly on the non moving parts to add protection. This generally is not done because it can hold brake dust but will be the lesser of the two evils when trying to combat salt water.

expert reply by: Randy B