Parts Needed to Add Electric Brakes to a Small Boat Trailer

Published 11/26/2021

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K

(3256)

$154.09

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

(109)

$1.61

Bright Way Push-to-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit with 1-Amp Charger and 5 Ah Battery - Top Load

(217)

$59.93

Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 10" - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased

(1925)

$106.14

Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 10" - 6 on 5-1/2 - Pre-Greased

(1925)

$119.10

Question:

I have a 17ft Escort trailer for my 2001 1703 Bayliner Trophy with a total boat weight loaded at about 2500 lbs. I need to install trailer brakes as my driveway is 19 and I have to back down it. Scary without brakes. It is a single axle trailer. What info do you need to help me on this issue? I suspect electric/hydraulic and breakaway is also required. Suggestions.

asked by: Michael S

Expert Reply:

I recommend installing electric brakes as they are more cost-effective and easier to maintain. This does mean you'll need a brake controller in your tow vehicle as well as a brake mounting flange on your axle (if you don't have one, we have some available that you can have welded on but I'd need to know your axle diameter).

With a boat weight of 2,500 lbs I would imagine that you have a 3,500 lb axle so you should be able to just install the 10" Brake Kit # AKEBRK-35-SA and then use the hub and drum assembly # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K for a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern or the assembly # AKHD-655-35-EZ-K if you have a 6 on 5-1/2" bolt pattern. Then you just need a breakaway kit like part # 3802308, some 10 Gauge Wire # 10-1-1, and I recommend using the Junction Box # 277-000141 for adding a 7-Way so that everything is easier to get everything connected and stay organized.

I'm attaching a helpful article that explains adding trailer brakes for you to check out. If you can confirm your axle capacity (it should be on a sticker in the middle of the axle) then we can move on from there.