Can Drum Brake Actuator Be Used Temporarily on Trailer with Disc Brakes

Updated 07/30/2019 | Published 07/28/2019

Question:

Hi, Can I temperarely use my existing drum brake actuator on newly installed disc brakes??? Trailer has 2X 3500lb axles, 10 inch drums, 5 lug on 4.5foot bc. Thanks,

asked by: Bob

Expert Reply:

The problem with using a drum brake actuator with disc brakes is that it's not going to supply enough pressure to fully engage the assemblies. Drum brake actuators typically put out around 1,000 to 1,200 psi (sufficient for drum brake assemblies) but disc brake systems require around 1,600 psi, thus an actuator specifically designed for them.

Because of this your braking power is going to be greatly reduced with your current setup. With a tandem axle trailer this could cause some issues, even short-term, depending on what type of trips you will be taking (highway driving, etc) so I really can't recommend doing this.

What you might be able to do depending on what model actuator you have is simply replace its master cylinder with one designed for disc brakes. If you happen to have a Titan Model 10 or Model 20 (very popular units) then you can use the Replacement Master Cylinder # T4749501042. This will essentially convert the actuator to a disc brake model.

Otherwise you will need to replace the actuator altogether with something like the excellent Demco # 8608611 that features an electric lockout and an 8,600 pound capacity.

expert reply by: Chris R