Parts Needed to Convert to Electric Trailer Brakes or Repair Hydraulic Trailer Brakes  

Question:

Expert Reply:

You can switch to electric brakes, but there are several parts you will need. First, you need to take a look at the hole pattern for the brake mounting flange. This is the piece that is welded to the axle that holds the brake assembly. The 7 inch brakes you are looking at have a standard 4 hole mounting pattern.

If the existing flange has a different pattern, you will need to have the old flange removed and a new one welded on by a qualified professional with experience working on trailers. It is a precision job and if welded on incorrectly can lead to excessive tire wear, tracking problems, ride quality problems and other issues. I have included a link to brake mounting flanges.

You may also need to replace the hub and drum assemblies because the electric brakes may not be compatible with the hydraulic brake drums. For these, you need the inner and outer bearing numbers stamped into the metal of the bearings.

You would then need to install a 7-Way trailer connector and brake controller on the vehicle and a 7-Way connector on the trailer. Wiring for the vehicle is year, make and model specific but the brake controller is not. The trailer side can use # H20046. I have included a link to a video showing a typical installation.

The coupler may also need to be replaced. If it is welded on, you will need to have a professional remove it and have a standard coupler installed. You may find that it will be a lot easier and more cost effective to have the existing brakes fixed. We do carry hydraulic brake replacement parts, see link, including brake line kits like # T4829900.

We also have actuator replacement parts, depending on the make and model, see link, or you could replace the entire unit with a new one. I have included a link to these as well.

expert reply by: Michael H

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