Converting Drum Brakes On A Dexter Military Trailer Axle With 8 On 6-1/2

Published 05/19/2017

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes w/ Dust Shields - Self-Adjusting - 12-1/4" - Left/Right - 10K

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Hopkins Engager Trailer Breakaway Kit w/ Charger, LED Tester, and 5 Ah Battery - Side Load

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

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etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes w/ Dust Shields - Self-Adjusting - 12-1/4" - Left/Right - 12K

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etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 5.2K to 7K

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etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes w/ Dust Shields - Self-Adjusting - 12-1/4" - Left/Right - 8K

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Mounting Bolts and Hardware for 12-1/4" Brake Assemblies - 10,000 lbs to 15,000 lbs

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

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Wiring Kit for Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuators

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Kodiak Disc Brake Kit - 13" Hub/Rotor - 8 on 6-1/2 - Raw Finish - 7,000 lbs

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Kodiak Disc Brake Kit - 11" Rotor - 8 on 6.5 - E-Coat - Leaf Spring - 12K - Dexter/Lippert

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Question:

Hello, I have an ex-military trailer with a dexter torsion axle. It has a 8x6.5 bolt pattern which I would like to retain. I would like to convert the surge brakes to electric disc brakes. Do you have the parts to do this? Thanks

asked by: James L

Helpful Expert Reply:

I would be happy to help you choose the correct brake setup for your Dexter Torflex Axle, however there are no manufacturers that currently make electric disc brakes. All disc brakes are powered by a hydraulic cylinder.

If you wish to use a disc brake setup controlled by an in-cab brake controller, you will want to consider the HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes part # HBA16 and an electric brake controller such as the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller part # 90195 if you don't already have one. Additionally you will also need a breakaway kit such as the Engager Trailer BreakAway Kit part # 20099 coupled with a trailer wiring harness such as the 7-Way Molded Trailer Wire Connector part # HS381-9000 if you do not already have one.

In order to choose the correct disc brakes for this setup, you would need to ensure the disc brakes are rated for the axle capacity you have on your trailer.

In order to switch from hydraulic drum brakes to disc brakes, I would need to know the weight capacity of your axle to recommend a specific kit. This can be done by locating the information sticker placed on the center of the axle or reading the part number located on the bearings which will correspond to the correct axle rating.

I recommend using the following for the corresponding axle capacities:

7,000 lb. - Kodiak Disc Brake Kit part # K2HR712
8,000 lb. - Kodiak Disc Brake Kit part # K2HR858A
10,000 lb. - Kodiak Disc Brake Kit part # K2R1058D13
12,000 lb.- Kodiak Disc Brake Kit part # K2R1258L12

If you are interested in converting to electric brakes completely, then you will have to install electric drum brakes. I recommend using the following for the corresponding axle capacities:

7,000 lb. - Electric Trailer Brake Kit part # AKEBRK-7-SA
8,000 lb. - Electric Trailer Brake Kit part # AKEBRK-8
10,000 lb. - Electric Trailer Brake Kit part # AKEBRK-10
12,000 lb. - Electric Trailer Brake Kit part # AKEBRK-12

You will also need to run the wires from the brakes to a trailer wiring harness. In order to do this I recommend using the Deka Jacketed 2 Wire part # 10-2-1. This wiring is sold by the foot, therefore you will need to measure your trailer to ensure you have the right amount.

I have attached several review videos in order to give a better explanation of what the transformation would consist of.