What Actuator is Needed for Hydraulic Disc Brakes with 1,500 psi Rating Requirement

Published 04/05/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Kodiak Disc Brake Kit - 12" Hub/Rotor - 6 on 5-1/2 - Dacromet - 5,200 lbs to 6,000 lbs

(49)

$563.84

Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator w/ Electric Lockout - Disc - Zinc - 2" Ball - 7,000 lbs

(153)

$221.10

Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator w/ Drop - Disc - Zinc - 2" Ball - 8,000 lbs

(28)

$326.32

Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator w/ Drop - Disc - Zinc - 2-5/16" Ball - 8,000 lbs

(28)

$329.40

Hydrastar Marine Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator w/ Breakaway and 7-Way RV Harness - 1,600 psi

(96)

$1053.91

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Off-Road Mode - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(1750)

$280.21

Question:

Im looking into replacing the stock drum brakes that came on my boat trailer with disc brakes. I have determined that the axle rating is 5200-6000 lbs. Ive figured out the brakes I want but Im wondering what type of actuator will work. It looks like you have surge actuators for disk brakes but it doesnt say what psi those actuators deliver. The brakes require 1500 psi. Will the surge actuators specified for disk brakes work or do I need an electric over hydraulic actuator? If so, do I require a marine rated actuator if I only boat on fresh water?

asked by: John K

Expert Reply:

Great question! You are correct that disc brakes, like part # K2HR526D, for your 5,200 - 6,000 lb trailer (or for any trailer for that matter) require a surge brake actuator with at least a 1,500 psi rating. The good news is that all of our hydraulic actuators that are designed for disc brakes, like the Demco # DM62VR, are rated for at least 1,500 psi so you're good to go on that end.

Since you're only using the boat for fresh water you don't have to be as concerned about corrosion, but using an actuator that has a salt-spray rating like part # DM8669113 or # DM8758811 isn't a bad idea because it just means that your coupler will last that much longer against the elements.

With all of that being said, the ultimate braking setup for a trailer is an electric over hydraulic (EOH) actuator with disc brakes because it gives you the stopping power of the best hydraulic setup combined with the accuracy of an electric setup. To go this route you will need to change a few things on your trailer but that is easily accomplished with the HydraStar Kit # HS381-9067. This gives you an EOH actuator with a 1,600 psi rating, a 7-Way plug with a junction box to upgrade your wiring, and a breakaway kit which is required when the braking is controlled electronically.

If you don't already have a brake controller in your vehicle then one of my favorites is the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite # RED44FR because of how versatile it is and how easy it is to use. I've attached a review video of this controller for you to check out.