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Options For Converting Trailer With Hydraulic Surge Brakes To Being Controlled By a Brake Controller  

Published 11/15/2022

Question:

I have a 96 jayco camper with a 4 pin flat connector and surge brakes. The surge brakes from the WELDED Atwood 85778 are not functional. Want to avoid chopping. Most these Atwood parts are not available. Considering retrofit to electric brakes. My tow vehicle is a 03 suburban with 7 pin. What components do I need to install electric brakes on camper and use them with the 7 pin suburban connector. .... OR.... Is there a suitable master cylinder replacement in kind for the old 85778 w/o chopping off my coupler?

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Expert Reply:

I have a couple options for your 1996 Jayco camper. The easiest option will be to add either the Hydrastar Vented Marine Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator for Disc Brakes # HS481-8067 or for Drum Brakes # HS481-8065. This will allow you to retain all your hydraulic lines, brakes and drums on your trailer. Both kits include a breakaway battery, breakaway switch and the hydraulic actuator and wiring needed to install them. You will need an Adapter # PK12716 to plug your 4-way flat into the 7-way included with the kits above. It is typically recommended to replace your Atwood actuator with a A-Frame Trailer Coupler # 12660-97SP. This will reduce the likelihood of issues down the road from parts failing on the actuator and the trailer coming disconnected.

If you wanted to change the trailer brakes over to electric I would need to know what axles/spindles you have to find the correct size brake assemblies. I would also need for you to remove one of your hubs to verify it will be compatible with electric brakes as it may not have the surface inside for the electromagnet to activate the brakes. Then you will need a Trailer Wiring 7-Way Upgrade Kit w/ Junction Box # HS381-9000 and Breakaway Kit # 3802346 to wire up your trailer.

You will need a Brake Controller # 90195 and Wiring Harness # 3015-P to install in your 2003 Chevrolet Suburban. This controller can be used with electric brakes or electric over hydraulic.

expert reply by:
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Bud M
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