Converting Hydraulic Drum Trailer Brakes to Disc Brakes on a Boat Trailer

Updated 05/24/2011 | Published 05/21/2011

Question:

I have a 1991 EZ-Loader tandem axle trailer Model TEZR 17-20/22 rated at 3,500 lb with 5 bolt 4.5 13 inch rims. I want to convert from the current surge drum brakes to disc. Can I do this by installing a kit for the rear axle only and leave the front disconnected/gutted out?? I know I can not mix disc and drum, but figure it will be much easier to just convert one axle and since boat is just over 2,000 lbs trailer is extra heavy duty already. Axles have the equalizer leaf springs,

asked by: Eric Z

Expert Reply:

You could put disc brakes on just the one axle, but I recommend going ahead and installing them on both since the trailer is set up for it already and there is a different pressure required for disc brakes. The difference is between 1200 psi for drum and 1600 psi for disc brakes so there is a possibility of adding too much pressure to a drum brake axle. Changing both axles to disc brakes will reduce wear and tear on both the trailer and the tow vehicle so a little extra expense now will end up saving you money down the road.

expert reply by: Michael H