How to Add Electric Disc Brakes to a Snowmobile Trailer

Updated 02/27/2014 | Published 02/26/2014

Question:

I have two questions. First I have a Haulmark Snowmobile trailer with 2 2,200 lb Dexter axles with electric drum brakes. : 1. Can I convert this setup to Electric disc brakes and if so, what is needed to do this? 2. If it cannot be converted to disc brakes, I would like to replace everything for each wheel so I would want backing plate out. What parts are needed to do this? Salt is very hard on drum brakes, seemingly worse than disc which is why I would like to change if possible.

asked by: Mike S

Expert Reply:

You can convert your setup to an electric disc setup, to do this you will need first to determine what spindle is on your trailer axles and what wheel bolt pattern you have on trailer wheels.

To determine what spindle you have you will have to remove your hubs and get the inner and outer bearing numbers. With those numbers you will be able to determine what spindles you have.

To determine the bolt pattern of your wheels check out the FAQ article I attached that details how this is done.

Also, are you looking to put disc brakes on one or both axles? Most likely you have a 4-bolt brake mounting flanges but you will need to verify that as well.

I attached a very helpful article on what it takes to add electric over hydraulic disc brakes to a trailer that will walk you through the entire process.

Since salt and corrosion is an issue I would recommend going with a stainless steel setup since they resist the corrosion the best.

expert reply by: Jameson C