How Do I Determine Which Hydraulic Brake Assemblies to Use on My Trailer

Updated 05/27/2020 | Published 05/21/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Hydraulic Trailer Brake Kit - Uni-Servo - Free Backing - 10" - Left/Right Hand - 3,500 lbs

(245)

$157.94

etrailer Hydraulic Trailer Brakes - Free Backing - E-Coat - 12" - Left/Right - 5.2K to 7K

(245)

$157.77

Mounting Hardware for 10" Brake Assemblies

(425)

$19.86

Mounting Bolts and Hardware for 12" Brake Assemblies

(230)

$39.10

Question:

I have a 1995 Maxum Boat that came with an escort single axle trailer. The trailer is a hydraulic brake trailer. I was told by a trailer company that the brakes and backing plates needed to be replaced. Rather than hire the work out of like to do the work myself. How do I determine what size brakes and backing plates I need?

asked by: William J

Expert Reply:

If you can check the specs on your axle and determine the capacity, that's going to be the easiest way to find out what brakes you need. If you've got a 3500-lbs axle (or smaller) you'll likely have 10" brake assemblies and can use something like the # AKFBBRK-35, which are a free backing hydraulic brake assembly. Since these assemblies do not come with mounting hardware you'll need mounting hardware # BRKH10B.

If you've got a 5000-lbs or larger axle you'll need a 12" brake assembly like the # AKFBBRK-7 which are also free backing hydraulic brakes. You will need mounting hardware # BRKH12 in order to install these brakes.

Both of these brakes come with backing plates, so you won't need to add those. I've linked some review and installation videos of these parts that you can refer back to during the installation process.

expert reply by: Erik B