Parts Needed to Add Electric Brakes to a 1996 Starcraft Satellite 1224

Question

Question:

Hi, I have a 1996 Starcraft Satellite 1224 popup camper that has no brakes at all. Google says its rated at about 1800 lbs curb weight. It has a torsion style axle, and it does have the brake mounting flange. It uses 13inch wheels. What would be a good complete package to add electric brakes? Based on what Im seeing, 7inch brakes rated for 2000/2200 lbs and the Autowbrake controller seem like a good combo. I intend to tow with a 2017 Chevy Traverse without the tow package.

asked by: Brian R

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

Already having the flanges on your axle will make things a bit easier, but you will need to verify a few things to make sure everything will be correct.

The Electric Trailer Brake Kit - 7" - Left and Right Hand Assemblies - 2,000 lbs # AKEBRK-2 will use a standard 4 bolt pattern that will measure 2-7/8" from hole to hole around the outside and 4" when measured diagonally (picture included). This is a pretty common bolt pattern, but with your trailer being from 1996, I do recommend double checking.

The next thing you will need to check is the bearing numbers on your axle as there can be a few differences here. Most of the time the spindle will be straight for this weight capacity, but the # AKHD-545-2-EZ-1K will use the # L44643 bearing that will have a 1 inch inner diameter and the # AKHD-545-2-EZ-2K will use the # L44649 bearing that has a 1.063 inner diameter. Both of these options will also use a 5 on 4-1/2 bolt pattern.

From here, there will be some wiring needed. The Trailer Wiring 7-Way Upgrade Kit w/ Junction Box and RV Style Connector # HS381-9000 will make this wiring significantly easier and I highly recommend wiring the Hopkins Engager Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit # 20400 to it. This will also make wiring the Autowbrake Electric Brake Controller - Trailer Mount # 3430001 a lot easier as well.

As to the Autowbrake Electric Brake Controller - Trailer Mount # 3430001, this is a very user friendly controller and is one of the easier ones to get working. It does require drilling it to the trailer frame, but you do not need to wire anything inside the vehicle and a key fob will get it adjusted, so it is easy to use. However, it will need to be reset every time it is unplugged and plugged back in, but it is pretty easy to do.

If you do not have any wiring on your vehicle as of yet, I recommend the Tekonsha # 118271. This plug and play wiring harness includes the fuses and relays to activate the tow package as your your vehicle was not equipped with the tow package. The # PK12711U and # 18140 brackets can then get everything attached to your hitch.