Converting Surge Brakes to Electric Over Hydraulic on a Tandem Axle Boat Trailer

Question:

Q1: I want to convert my boat trailer from surge brakes to electric over hydraulic, The Hydrastar unit appears to be well sealed, is it the best choice for the saltwater marine environment? My trailer has four wheel Kodiak 14 disc brakes. Q2: Is my current brake controller Tekonsha Prodigy suitable for use with E/H brakes? Q3: Which break-away switch will be the best choice for the marine environment?

asked by: Bruce

Expert Reply:

The Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Brake Actuator, # HS381-8067, for disc brakes, would be an excellent choice for your boat trailer with Kodiak disc brakes in a saltwater marine environment. The unit is sealed very well with marine grade gaskets, stainless steel hardware, and an anodized aluminum housing, but it should not be submerged in water. You will want to mount the unit as far forward on the tongue of the trailer as possible to keep the unit from being submerged.

This system will absolutely work with your Prodigy P3 brake controller, # 90195.

A good option for a breakaway kit for the actuator is the Tekonsha Push to Text Breakaway Kit # 50-85-313. All of the breakaway units are about the same when it comes to marine environments and they too should not be submerged in water and should be mounted near the tongue of the trailer. I would recommend using a small amount of Dielectric Grease, # 11755, periodically in the breakaway switch to combat the corrosion caused by saltwater.

If you are interested in switching out your brake lines for marine friendly lines, I would recommend looking at our Kodiak Tandem Axle Brake Line Kit, # 20TA-BLKIT, that comes with flexible lines and brass fittings.