Will The HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Disc Brake Actuator Be Good For A Boat Trailer?

Question:

Hello, Im looking to upgrade my brakes on my dual axle aluminum trailer that I pull a Sportsman 231 Center Console with estimating it at 5050 lbs with boat, trailer, motor, gas, and accessories. It currently has surge hydraulic disc brakes. I am thinking to upgrade to electronic which I would be pulling with a Dodge Ram 1500 2017 that has an integrated trailer module. I was looking at this kit: Hydrastar HS381-9067 I will also need new rotors and pads. So my questions are: Will this setup hold up in marine conditions? Which rotors / pads do you recommend? Is there a kit that has most of what Id need? Should I be looking at full electric brakes instead of electric over hydraulic? thanks

asked by: Bill H

Expert Reply:

Though a fully electric brake set up can work with water applications, I typically do not recommend it. Water and electricity doesn't really mix well, so a hydraulic disc brake set up is always the better option. Plus they have more stopping power than electric brakes.

With that out of the way, I can highly recommend the HydraStar Marine Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator w/ Breakaway and 7-Way RV Harness # HS381-9067 kit. This is built of extruded anodized aluminum for superior corrosion resistance, has weathertight seals to protect internal components, and it also features marine-grade gaskets and stainless steel hardware that won't rust. This makes it perfect for marine applications. I have also found HydraStar actuators to be more reliable than the other brands we carry, so I really can't sing its praise loud enough to do it justice. It's even American made.

As to replacing your rotors and pads, this will depend on the brand of brakes you currently have installed, the bolt pattern of your wheels, and the capacity. If your rotors are integrated with the hubs, you bearing numbers will also be a factor. As an example, the Kodiak Disc Brake Kit # K2HR35D is rated for a 3,500 pound axle so it will use the # L68149 inner bearing and # L44649 outer bearing and has a 5 on 4-1/2 bolt pattern (I included an article on how to find this if you are unsure). The pads and rotor that this uses cannot be used with other brands of calipers and caliper brackets. If you can get me the capacity, brand, and bearing numbers you have, I can definitely see if we have replacements available for your brakes.

expert reply by: Lazer S