Are Electric Trailer Brakes Okay to Use on a Boat Trailer

Updated 11/15/2021 | Published 09/27/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left Hand - 3,500 lbs

(361)

$66.82

Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(2763)

$160.45

Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Right Hand - 3,500 lbs

(364)

$51.43

Question:

Are these brakes part # 23-468 Ok for a boat trailer? thanks

asked by: John F

Helpful Expert Reply:

Hydraulic brakes are better suited for boat trailers for the simple fact that wires and water do not like to cooperate with each other, but the etrailer.com Self Adjusting Electric Trailer Brakes, # AKEBRK-35L-SA, can be used on a boat trailer assuming there is a 4-bolt brake mounting flange welded to the axle. The compatible right hand brake assembly is part # AKEBRK-35R-SA.

If you choose to install electric brakes on your boat trailer, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. First, make sure all of your splices and wires are sealed so water cannot make its way into the wires and cause shorts or corrosion build up. Second, I strongly recommend unplugging the trailer wiring from the vehicle before backing into the water and not plugging them back in until the trailer has had a chance to dry.

Finally, electric trailer brakes are actuated with a brake controller that would be installed in the cab of the vehicle as well as a 5, 6 or 7-way style trailer connector if you do not already have one. If you do not have a brake controller, I would recommend looking at the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, # 90885. If you would like some recommendations on trailer wiring for your tow vehicle, let me know the year, make and model of your vehicle and what type of trailer wiring you currently have installed.

I have attached a trailer wiring FAQ for you to check out that talks about how electric trailer brakes are wired and the different trailer connectors. I have also attached FAQ articles on parts needed to add electric or hydraulic brakes to a trailer.

expert reply by: John H