How to Choose Correct Hydraulic Disc Brake Actuator and Hubs for a Boat Trailer

Published 10/05/2017

Question:

What is the best or highest rated hydraulic disc brake actuator and hubs for a boat trailer. Thank you

asked by: Ryan

Expert Reply:

When it comes to the best hydraulic actuator one of our most popular options is the Brake Actuator with Electric Lockout # 099-175-20 from Dexter which has a weight capacity of 7,500 lbs. It is compatible with a 2" hitch ball and fits 3" wide channel tongues. To determine what is best for your application you can filter through the linked selection of disc brake actuators and choose the hitch ball size you will be using as well as the weight capacity needed and what type of mounting you desire with your specific coupler type.

Hubs, on the other hand, will require you to gather some information. If you remove one of your hubs you will want to find the part number of the inner and outer bearings as that is what is needed when replacing a hub. You will also need to note the part number of your grease seal if it is available. If you cannot find part numbers on any of that equipment then you will need to use a digital caliper to find what the B, C, and D locations on your spindle measure (see attached photo). Once you know what your correct bearing and seal measurements are you can then filter through our linked selection of hubs with rotors for one that is compatible with your axle weight capacity and the bearings and grease seal measurements that you took.

If you can let me know the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of your trailer along with the tongue size and what bearings and seals you need I can make some recommendations for you.

expert reply by: Jon G