Electric/Hydraulic Disc Brake System for Tandem Axle Boat Trailer Exposed to Saltwater

Question

Question:

I have a tandem axel trailer that gets diped in saltwater about 60 of the time. I am looking to replace the electric drum brakes as they are problematic. I would like to go with a electric-hydraulic system. Do you make a kit for this? Two K2R35Ss are more then the T4843700 kit. Would it be worth the exter cost of asmbelihg all the parts or is the T4843700 kit appropriate for saltwater use?

asked by: Tony

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Expert Reply:

The hub/rotors included in the # T4843800 are Dacromet coated. Dacromet has a 400-600 hour salt spray rating, which means it can withstand 400-600 hours of exposure before signs of corrosion begin to appear. Although stainless offers better corrosion resistance, the Titan kit would last you for awhile, especially if you do a good job of hosing the trailer off after exposure to salt water.

The Titan # T4843800 is compatible with 3500 lb axles, and uses a L68149 inner and L44649 outer wheel bearing. The rotors are compatible with 14-15 inch diameter wheels with a 5 on 4-12 inch bolt pattern. Everything needed to install on a tandem axle trailer is included-actuator, wiring, hub/rotors, calipers, mounting hardware, brake lines, fittings and the break away kit.

The Kodiak # K2R35S (you'd need two of them for a tandem axle trailer) uses a slip-on rotor that would slip over an idler hub. If your existing hub/drums use a L68149 inner and L44649 outer bearing, you'd use a # AKIHUB-545-35-G-EZ-K galvanized idler hub. You'd then need to piece together a kit. Beginning with the EOH actuator, I'd recommend the Hydrastar # CAR-HBA16-2 actuator kit. The kit includes the Hydrastar electric over hydraulic actuator, which our install crew prefers to the Titan Brake-Rite. They've found the Hydrastar to operate the brake harder and more quickly, which is why I recommend it. A break away kit is also included.

With either option, you'll also need a brake controller that's compatible with electric/hydraulic brake actuators. The Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part # 90885 would be a good choice.

The major factor in choosing between the two options would be your budget. The Titan option is the less expensive, but the pieced together option I presented offers rotors with better corrosion resistance and a better-functioning actuator.

expert reply by: Mike L

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