Disc Brake Upgrade for Tandem Axle Boat Trailer

Updated 01/08/2018 | Published 01/06/2018

Question:

Hi, I have a tandem axle catamaran trailer with 3500 axles and 7k capacity. It currently does not have any brakes. I would like to install some disc brakes on the rear axle. The trailer is only used in saltwater. What do you recommend for a complete kit? Thanks!!

asked by: Chris M

Expert Reply:

If you are going to install brakes on only one axle of a tandem trailer you will place them on one or the other depending on the axle type. If the trailer uses torsion axles the brakes should go on the front axle. If the trailer uses a leaf spring suspension then the brakes go on the rear axle. Naturally, it is better to use brakes on both axles, a kit that is rated for each axle's 3500-lb capacity.

You can install either a hydraulic or an electric-over-hydraulic disc brake setup on your boat trailer.
One will use a surge coupler and the other an electrically-powered actuator. I linked an article for each type of installation that recaps all the items needed and the things to consider as you plan the trailer upgrade.

The disc brake kit you referenced, Kodiak # K2HR35DS, is a good choice for a salt water environment since this kit's stainless steel and dacromet-coated components will hold up well in that kind of corrosive environment.

expert reply by: Adam R