Caliper Installation Position Recommendation when Installing Disc Brakes on Trailer

Published 10/09/2015

Question:

I have a 2014 Hearland Big Country fifth wheel. The electric disk brakes arent doing the job. I want to switch to hydraulic disk brakes. The axles are 7,000 lb Dexter EZ Lube, Self adjusting drum brakes. All of the Kodiak instructions show the caliper at the top of the disk. All of the installation videos I have seen show the caliper mounted on the rear of the disk, at the back side of the trailer. Is the mounting plate idiot proof, IE, it only mounts one way or can the bracket be installed with the caliper at the front of the trailer, or on top of the disk, or at the rear of the disk? If the bolt pattern is symmetrical, you could even mount it on the bottom. What is the correct way and why if this is possible?

asked by: Joe K

Expert Reply:

The calipers of the Kodiak Disc Brake Kit part # K2HR712 that you referenced can basically be installed in whichever orientation you like. BUT the key is to pick a location that will allow one of the bleeder valves to point up so that when you go to bleed the brakes the air will have an easier time traveling up the valve. Aside from that and clearance issues that may prevent them from being orientated in certain positions there really isn't any wrong way to orientate them.

expert reply by: Jameson C