Parts Needed to Add Disc Brakes to Trailer with Dexter 12K Axles w/ Electric Drum Brakes

Updated 05/26/2020 | Published 05/28/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Breakaway Kit with Charger and 9 Ah Battery - Top Load

(24)

$166.45

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6679)

$161.44

Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi

(234)

$887.95

Question:

Hi I have Dexter 12k axels with electric drum brakes can I switch them to disc breaks using this kit

asked by: Rick F

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Kodiak # K2R1258L12 Disc Brake Kit is compatible with a 12K Dexter axle with a 7-bolt brake mounting flange. Your current wheels/hubs should have an 8 on 6-1/2 inch bolt pattern.

You'll also need an electric over hydraulic brake actuator, a brake line kit, a break away system and a brake controller that's compatible with electric over hydraulic brake systems.

For the electric over hydraulic actuator, I'd recommend going with the Hydrastar # HBA16. Our install techs have found it to be one of the more reliable and hardest braking units. It's also competitively priced. For an electric over hydraulic compatible brake controller, you can't go wrong with the Tekonsha P3, part # 90195. The controller is extremely easy to use with an extremely user-friendly display that tells you the status of the brake system at a glance.

I'll link you to our selection of disc brake compatible brake line kits. You'll want to choose a kit that is disc brake compatible, is designed for the number of axles your trailer has and includes a main brake line with a length greater than or equal to the distance from the actuator to the first axle. Because you have a larger, heavier trailer I'd recommend a break away system that has a 9 amp/hour battery like the Dexter # 34-285.

expert reply by: Mike L

Mike S.

5/18/2020

Good Morning, I have a 2016 Forest River Wildwood Heritage Glen 272 bh and need to replace a brake assembly. The measurements of the bolt distance is 2 7/8 all around. Yet, for a 4.4k axle, I am only seeing 3 1/4" x 3" x 2 7/8". Is there something I am missing? The placard on the axle says it was manufactured in 2015. Thank you.

Chris R.

5/20/2020

I see what you're saying. Is there by chance a number stamped anywhere on your existing brake assemblies? I wonder if the axle is equipped with lower-rated brakes (3.5K assemblies have that 2-7/8" mounting pattern).

Mike S.

5/23/2020

@ChrisR yes there is a stamp. I took pix of the axle if you want to see. I’m concerned, if I do have lower rated brakes for my 4.4k axle on a 31’ trailer is this unsafe?

Chris R.

5/26/2020

@MikeS Great, is there any way you can email me the picture directly? Lower rated brakes would essentially lower their effectiveness for the trailer. Your stopping power just wouldn't be ideal for a trailer of this size.