Best Braking Setup to Replace Drum Brakes on 40 Foot Gooseneck Trailer 8k Drum Brakes

Updated 08/27/2019 | Published 08/26/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Disc Brake Kit - 12-1/4" Hub/Rotor - Oil - 8 on 6-1/2 - E-Coat - 8,000 lbs

(2)

$1917.07

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

(6643)

$155.20

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

(230)

$1225.48

Question:

I am looking for help with replacement trailer brake backing plate units or disc brakes for my 1995 40 Goose neck trailer. it has two Dexter 6K lb axles with 12 12.250? x 4 shoes, the backing plates mount with 4 bolts on 4 centers. The lug pattern is 8 on 6 1/2 with 9/16 studs. The current hubs are oil filled with inner bearing 25580 and outer bearing 4T-02475, seal is a national 370219BG. The brakes have never worked well, therefore thinking about disc brakes. Looking for the correct part numbers that would work for this application.

asked by: Mike

Helpful Expert Reply:

Based on the dimensions and bolt pattern you listed the correct disc brake kit is the Dexter Kit part # K71-635-91. This matches the 4 bolt mounting bracket pattern you have, the bearings, and is an oil bath setup.

This will bolt right up to what you have now and will give you much better braking performance. This is definitely your best option.

Then for a kit that includes the best and most reliable actuator, the brake lines, and a breakaway kit you'd want the HydraStar kit part # HBA16-252-82 and you'd be set. I attached an install video link for this for you to check out as well.

You'll need to have a brake controller installed in your vehicle that is compatible with electric over hydraulic brakes like the P3 part # 90195.

expert reply by: Jameson C