Comparing Drum Brakes to Disc Brakes of a 5th Wheel Trailer

Updated 05/06/2020 | Published 04/11/2013

Question:

Electric drum vs electric disk on 5th wheel campers. 2012 F350 diesel dually

asked by: M. L

Helpful Expert Reply:

I always recommend choosing disc brakes over drum brakes if you have the option. Disc brakes will provide more stopping power, less fade and require less maintenance because they have fewer moving parts.

If your 5th wheel trailer currently has electric drum brakes and you want to convert to hydraulic disc brakes, then you will need not only the brakes, but a brake line kit and an electric-over-hydraulic actuator for disc brakes. You will also need a brake controller for your tow vehicle if you do not already have one. I have attached a help article on parts needed to add electric-over-hydraulic disc brakes to a trailer for you to check out.

The HydraStar Actuator, # HBA16, is compatible with disc brakes and it is the actuator that I would recommend for you.

There are many factors to consider when choosing disc brakes. First, we will need to know how many axles your trailer has and the weight rating of each axle. Next, we will need to know the part numbers of the inner and outer bearings from your current hubs to make sure we choose the correct replacement disc brake hubs. The part numbers will be stamped into the metal of the bearing. I have attached a photo showing where the part numbers will be located. We will also need the part number of your grease seals. This will be stamped into the rubber of the grease seal.

If you are unable to find the part numbers, then you can take a few measurements of your spindles. These measurements need to be precise, so I recommend using a dial caliper to make sure it is exact.

If you need a brake controller, I would take a look at the Tekonsha P3 Brake Controller, # 90195. This proportional brake controller is compatible with electric-over-hydraulic brakes and is very easy to set up and use.

expert reply by: John H

click to enlarge

Joshua I.

5/4/2020

Which other parts would be necessary to make the conversion. I am trying to estimate cost. 1. Electric over hydraulic actuator2 ? Hub3 ? disc brakesCan you link other necessary parts for my estimations?