Replacing Electric Drum Brakes With Electric Over Hydraulic Disc Brakes On A 2017 Keystone Avalanche

Question:

Hi I have keystone avalanche fifth wheel 2017 I’m planning to replace the existing break drum to disc break like car 1- is it possible? 2- is it easy just plug and play? 3- I need 4 with associated accessories. Would you please help me to choose the right one I’ll fix it by my self if it’s easy. If you have other recommendations please share it as an other option. Regard

asked by: Nader

Expert Reply:

The information I could find about your 2017 Keystone Avalanche was fairly limited, it does look like 7,000 pound axles were used. Using that information, I do have a full parts list with quantities listed below and this is a pretty common upgrade, so it is definitely possible. However, I definitely recommend contacting Keystone with the trailer's VIN to double check that I am correct about said capacity. Though not necessarily a plug and play system, as there will not be, this is pretty straight forward and if you have done anything like this before, it will not be overly difficult.

Qty.1 - HydraStar Electric-Hydraulic Actuator w/ Line Kit for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi # CAR-HBA16-2
Qty.2 - Kodiak Disc Brake Kit - 13" Hub/Rotor - 8 on 6-1/2 - Raw Finish - 7,000 lbs # K2HR79
Qty.4 - Replacement Trailer Hub Bearing # 25580
Qty.4 - Replacement Trailer Hub Bearing # 02475
Qty.2 - Grease Seals 10-36 (pair) # RG06-070
Qty.1 - Epicord 7-Way Molded Trailer Plug with Junction Box - 10' Long # 277-000141

I have found the HydraStar electric over hydraulic actuators to be the best ones that we currently carry, so this is definitely a good one. It also includes all the lines and brackets to get it up and running and even includes a break away kit (not all are rated for electric over hydraulic). As this is not a water application, like a boat trailer, the Kodiak Disc Brake Kit # K2HR79 will work perfectly for you and will mate to the actuator without issues.

The # 277-000141 junction box is completely optional, but it will make getting everything connected a lot easier and I highly recommend it.