Changing Boat Trailer Brakes from Single Axle Hydraulic to 2-Axle Electric Drum Brakes

Question:

Hello, I have a boat trailer ELZO built 1987 or 1989. The trailer has 4 wheels and can carry 4ooo lb. Brakes are hydraulic on 2 wheels. Can I change to electric brakes for the two wheels or for all 4 ? Braking on only two wheels are causing over heating brakes on car. Can I find parts, as bearing kit for this type of trailer? The wheels are attached with nuts not screws. Thank you.

asked by: Daniel B

Helpful Expert Reply:

You can certainly convert your tandem axle trailer from single axle hydraulic drum brakes to dual axle electric drum brakes. Having brakes on both axles will certainly help reduce the wear and tear on your tow vehicle's brakes and may even slightly improve the trailer's handling.

Please take a look at the linked article that covers the process of converting a trailer from hydraulic drum to electric brakes. The article covers the components required and what you need to consider when making a selection. The article even includes a table of common combinations of electric brake components based on your trailer's axle capacity (which should be indicated on a sticker on the axle itself).

Among the most popular electric brake controllers is the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part # 90885, which our customers rate very highly for its ease of use, flexibility and reliability. Depending on your tow vehicle, you may be able to use a quick-connect harness to plug in the controller under your dash.

I have linked several articles that cover brake controllers and their installation.

expert reply by: Adam R