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Adding Electric Brakes to Scamp Trailer Using Autowbrake Controller  

Question:

I have a 13foot Scamp trailer, weighs 1,500 lbs and I need to add electric trailer brakes, which I would like to operate with the Autowbrake system that attaches to the trailer, rather than the car, as I am told my 2012 Subaru Outback cannot handle the wiring for trailer brakes. Is that doable? Can I do it myself? I am not trailer or auto savvy, so will need the simple and complete instructions for Dummies. thanks,

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Expert Reply:

We actually have a great article on exactly this subject that I have attached below. It will walk you through all the items you need to add electric brakes to a trailer like your Scamp 13 footer. This will also give you a good idea as to if it's something that you feel comfortably doing on your own.

Most of the process consists of simply adding the needed hubs and brake assemblies to the spindles on the trailer which is pretty straightforward. You will want to make sure the existing axle on the trailer is equipped with brake mounting flanges. If they are not already present they will need to be welded-on by a certified professional or the axle will need to be replaced with one that has them already attached.

You will need to make sure you you find compatible hub-and-drum assemblies for your trailer. If you can locate the inner and outer bearing numbers on the current hubs I will be happy to make a specific recommendation for these along with compatible electric brake assemblies.

For a do-it-yourself-er the most intimidating part will likely be with the wiring if you don't have any experience with this. The Autowbrake Electric Brake Controller # 3430001 isn't wired to the tow vehicle at all but it does still need to be connected to a 12V source such as a trailer-mounted battery. In order to make sure the battery maintains its charge you will want to convert the connector on the trailer to a 6-Way or 7-Way and do the same on the Outback so the tow vehicle can provide charge to the battery during travel.

Using something like the Trailer Wiring 7-Way Kit # HS381-9000 will be the best way to accomplish this both for the trailer wiring and the wiring for the Autowbrake. If you have a 4-Way on the Outback already you will just need the Wiring Kit # ETBC7L to convert it to a 7-Way with the active 12V circuit.

For the brake assemblies themselves you will need to run 10 gauge wiring like # 10-1-1 (sold by the foot) from the new 6- or 7-Way on the trailer to the assemblies. Each assembly will have 2 wires, one for ground that gets attached to the trailer frame and one for power that will connect to this 10 gauge wiring. I have attached an image to assist.

Please just let me know if you have any further questions along the way. The mentioned article attached below will also go into a bit more detail on all of these components.

expert reply by:
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Chris R
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