Can Electric Brakes Be Used On Boat Trailer?
Updated 06/14/2023 | Published 06/13/2023
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Question:
Hello there, Im really interested in this draconet electric brake assembly since I have to replace two or three axles on a new trailer that I bought that is about 20 years old. I actually want to use this brake assembly for boat trailer that will see saltwater use. I did a lot of research about the magnet and found out that it is completely sealed, so Im really not worried about there being some kind of a short. Even though theres not much to short out because my understanding is the magnet is simply attracted to the drum surface. Theres been a lot of talk on the internet how you should not use electric brakes on a boat trailer that is going to be dipped in water. It seemed like this is pretty resistant to rusting out if you wash it off with fresh water. I just like electric brakes overall better than having to deal with all the hydraulics. I like the Precision control. My thought was put this assembly along with a galvanized drum. I have 14 inch wheels. I need to confirm the size of the bearings on the Hub but I believe its a 3500 lb axle. I know these are rated heavier but they should fit on a 3500 lb axle. Any feedback would be appreciated as far as specifically the thought that these would stop working if theyre dipped in water. Im not seeing really a problem with it but I would like your feedback, thanks
asked by: Jt
Expert Reply:
There's plenty of new boat trailer manufacturer's using electric brakes on boat trailers, so you can absolutely do it, but there are a few key things.
If you're removing the electrical connector before backing into the water like most do, you won't have trailer brakes which could make launching the boat interesting depending how heavy your boat is compared to the weight of your vehicle.
Modern trailer wiring and brake assemblies are designed to be safe to be submerged for launching a boat, but as you mentioned salt water it's extremely important to thoroughly rinse the brakes after getting it out of the water each time.
There aren't any dacromet electric brakes for a 3,500lb axle like you have, so you'd be stuck with the standard e-coat brakes which I do not recommend for salt water. In that case I'd stick with hydraulic drums in dacromet # AKFBBRK-35-D, and if you want the brake controller adjustability then you can just add an electric over hydraulic actuator # HS381-8065. This will allow you to control the hydraulics with a compatible brake controller like the # 90195 giving you the adjustability brake controllers are known for.
If you find you have a larger 5,200lb+ axle then you could use the electric # AKEBRK-7-D which would be fine.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Rust-Resistant Electric Trailer Brakes - Dacromet - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 5.2K to 7K
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Marine Grade
- Manual Adjust
- 12 x 2 Inch Drum
- 5200 lbs Axle
- 6000 lbs Axle
- 7000 lbs Axle
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- 16 Inch Wheel
- etrailer
more information >
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