To determine the size of the brake assemblies you need you have to measure the depth and width of the hub drum on the axle like what you see in the picture I attached. The most common size is 2-1/4 inch wide like the #T4071600-500 that you…
It sounds like you are speaking of the wires for the brake magnets. If this is correct, you will need to connect one of the wires to the brake controller output wire on your trailer connector and the other wire will need to be grounded to a clean…
In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.
I currently have four different self-adjusting assemblies for your boat trailer with 10" x 2-1/4" electric drum brakes. You can choose from the following: -Terran Axle Electric Trailer Brakes #TX97ZJ (3,500 Axles) -etrailer Electric Trailer…
That's a very good question, we tend to be extra cautious and say to use 10 gauge wire because that would be more than enough. When you get into longer trailers that will end up using a lot of wire the heavier gauge wire becomes more necessary.…
The Demco Hydraulic Trailer Brake Actuator part #DM72VR should be a direct replacement for the Atwood 61101 Brake Actuator that you have now. This newest updated it rated at 7K instead of 6K. This is a bolt on option that mounts on 3" centers.…
According to Blue Ox, it'll take an experienced installer about 4 to 5 hours to complete the installation of their #BX1128 Base Plate Kit on a 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The install isn't what I'd call super-difficult, but the installation…
Even though I cannot comment specifically on the grease you used because I am not familiar with it, I can tell you the best grease for trailer bearings is a a grease with a rating of GC-LB, which just means it is made to withstand very high…
Hey Tom. The highest capacity drum brake assemblies we have for a 4 bolt brake flange are the Dexter Electric Trailer Brakes item #23-105-106-09. These are a 6,000 lbs set that are mainly used with AL-KO/Hayes axles. Do you have any part numbers or…
Hey Greg, yes the Aluminum Hi-Spec Series 04 Star Mag Trailer Wheel #AM20258 that you referenced would work with a Load Range E tire ST175/80R13 like you mentioned.
Hey Mark, thanks for reaching out! I see you purchased the Dexstar Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel #AM20353. Were you wanting to get a 205/75R14 tire as well? I wasn't able to find anything online referring to the part number you mentioned, but I'd…
The manual lockout on your Atwood 85778 surge brake coupler is there so that you can back up the trailer without the brakes locking up on you. Yes you can safely tow your trailer with the broken manual lockout, you just have to make sure you…
etrailer is Your Ultimate Destination for All Your Trailer Brake Needs
Stay in control of your trailer with reliable braking systems built for performance, safety, and ease of use. Whether you need disc brakes, electric trailer brakes, or a new brake actuator, we’ve got the parts to match your trailer’s setup. Add a brake controller to your tow vehicle for smooth stopping, and browse our complete kits, pads, calipers, and lines for quick repairs or upgrades. From basic drum setups to full electric brakes for trailer conversions, we’ll help you find the right fit for your load and towing style.With over 75 years of assisting our neighbors and customers, over 1 million photos and videos taken to make sure you’re getting exactly what you need, and over 35 thousand installations completed, we’ve got the product know-how and experience to help you make the right choices for the job at hand.
What kinds of trailer brakes are there?
The three main types are electric drum brakes, hydraulic drum brakes, and disc brakes. Electric trailer brakes use a brake controller to activate when your vehicle slows down. Disc brakes offer better stopping power, while hydraulic drum brakes are a great fit for boat trailers.
How do I choose between drum and disc brakes?
Disc brakes offer better performance and less maintenance but cost more. Drum brakes are more budget-friendly and suitable for most trailers. If you’re towing heavy loads or want smoother stops, go with disc brakes.
I want to add electric brakes to my trailer. How do I do that?
You’ll need electric brakes for trailer installation including mounting flanges, hub-and-drum assemblies, electric brake assemblies, and wiring. A brake controller in your vehicle is also required to sync braking performance.
Can I have my trailer brake system professionally installed?
Yes—you don’t have to tackle it alone. Installing trailer brakes, actuators, or controllers can get complex, especially if you're dealing with wiring, hydraulic systems, or brake upgrades. If you'd rather leave it to the pros, use our Local Installer Locator Tool to find a trusted service provider near you. Whether you're adding electric brakes to a trailer or upgrading to disc brakes, we’ll help connect you with experienced installers who know exactly how to get it done right.
What does a brake controller do?
A brake controller sends a signal to your trailer’s electric or electric-over-hydraulic brakes. This synchronizes stopping power between your tow vehicle and trailer—especially critical for heavy loads.
Can I use electric brakes on my boat trailer?
You can, but it’s not recommended. Water can damage the electrical components over time. Hydraulic brakes are better suited for marine use because they’re more water-resistant.
What kind of maintenance do trailer brakes need?
You’ll want to regularly inspect and adjust the brakes, check for wear on the pads or shoes, and make sure all the connections are tight and free of rust. If you have hydraulic brakes, check the brake fluid levels and bleed the system if needed. For more detailed instructions on bleeding your surge breaks, visit our FAQ page
How do I bleed the hydraulic brakes on my trailer?
Fill the master cylinder with brake fluid. Manually activate the actuator or use a bleeding tool to push fluid through the lines. Open each bleeder valve until fluid flows with no air bubbles.
