Rubber Versus Steel Brake Lines for Electric Over Hydro Conversion on Single Brake Axle Trailer

Updated 04/05/2022 | Published 04/04/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes - 1,600 psi

(246)

$844.97

Brightway Trailer Breakaway Kit w/ Charger, LED Tester, and 10 Ah Battery - Top Load

(475)

$140.74

Kodiak Hydraulic Brake Hose - 3/16" Male Fittings w/ Stainless Flares - 1/8" ID - 1.5'

(205)

$37.10

Kodiak Hydraulic Brake Hose - 3/16" Male Fittings w/ Stainless Flares - 1/8" ID - 20'

(81)

$69.92

Kodiak Hydraulic Brake Hose - 3/16" Male Fittings w/ Stainless Flares - 1/8" ID - 7'

(124)

$44.27

Kodiak Tee Fitting for Hydraulic Brake Hose - Brass - 3/16" Female Inverted Flares

(83)

$11.93

Wiring Kit for Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuators

(14)

$97.71

Question:

I have a 3 axle, 20 ft boat trailer, disc brakes on front axle. I am going to convert to electric / hydraulic. I need to replace the brake lines. Are steel lines better than rubber ones? Thank You

asked by: William H

Expert Reply:

As an installer, I much prefer rubber lines as they are easier to use. The steel lines are more durable but I can't say I've ever had a trailer we worked on come back with a broken rubber hose either. The steel lines are very hard to work with and if you want it to look decent you'll have to cut the lines to your exact length and flare on the fittings again. If you're experienced with brake lines and have the time to do it right and make it look nice then the steel lines work well but even so I tend to recommend rubber for the reasons above. I have attached the parts you need below.

1.5' Brake Hose part # BH-3MFS-1-5 (Left Side)
7' Brake Hose part # BH-3MFS-7 (Right Side)
20' Brake House part # bh-3mfs-20 (Actuator To Tee)
Tee Fitting part # BH-T-3FIF (Between Left and Right)
HydraStar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator part # HBA16
Trailer Wiring 7-Way Upgrade Kit part # HS381-9000
Bright Way Push-to-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit part # 3802311