Upgrading to Disc Brakes on a 7K Boat Trailer

Question:

Hi I have a twin axel 7k lbs boat trailer. It is time for a break replacement and upgrade. I have used the trailer more than expected and the it is often borrowed by less experienced drivers with the tow vechile. So I would like to implement good breaks. I was thinking of going to disk breaks and was looking at your kits. However the axels are 6 on 5-1/2. Having good hubs and tires I was thinking of using slide over disks. The dlsk sets for 6 on 5-1/2 such as K2R526DKG are rated for 5200 to 6000 lbs. Would I end up with too much stopping power on the trailer and cause a problem if I was to install these? Many thanks for any advice.

asked by: Brian S

Expert Reply:

If you have a twin axle 7K trailer, you likely have 3.5K axles. Of course, you will want to verify this since this is important when considering the brakes.

That having been said, the Kodiak Disc Brake Kit - 12" Rotor - 6 on 5-1/2 - Dacromet and KodaGuard - 5,200 to 6,000 lbs, part # K2R526DKG, is still a decent fit for your axles despite being rated for higher capacity ones. The reason is that these use the same psi (1500 or more) as smaller ones.

Some other things to consider when looking at these are the brake mounting flange's bolt pattern (5 bolt), the fact that they are made for #42 spindles and 15" or greater wheels, and the actuator and lines needed to activate these brakes.

If all of this lines up with your current setup, then for your actuator, I recommend the Dexter DX7.5 Drop-N-Go Brake Actuator, part # 099-175-20. For your lines, I recommend the Kodiak Hydraulic Brake Line Kit - Tandem Axle - 18', part # 18TA-BLKIT.

I've linked to video reviews of each of these parts.