Are The Steel Brake Lines For Hydraulic Drum Brakes Safe To Use When Converting To Disc Brakes?

Published 02/29/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Hydrastar Marine Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator w/ Breakaway and 7-Way RV Harness - 1,600 psi

(87)

$1013.43

Kodiak Hydraulic Brake Hose - Straight and 90-Degree Male Fittings w/ Stainless Flares - 1.5'

(91)

$36.80

Hydrastar Hydraulic Brake Line Kit - Tandem Axle - 15' Long, 3/16" Main Line

(9)

$220.94

Question:

Hi, My boat trailer has old hydraulic drum brakes surge actuator. I would like to convert them to EOH. Assuming they are in good condition, should I be able to use the existing hydraulic hard lines running from the actuator to the axles? Each line terminates before the axle and there is a flex line going from the termination to the hub. Id likely replace all 4 of the short flexible lines, but dont want to replace the hard lines if I dont need to. I would not imagine the PSI ratings for the lines are affected by the higher PSI requirement of a disc brake, but thought Id check. Thanks

asked by: Steve L

Expert Reply:

As long as the steel lines are in good condition, then yes you will be able to reuse that portion of the brake lines on your trailer. You will want to look at a kit like the Hydrastar # HS381-9067 as it will come with the actuator, a 7-way connection and junction box to terminate the wiring and a breakaway kit since you will have electric actuated brakes.

We do have the Brake Line Kit # HS496-152 if you decide you want all new brake lines otherwise you should only need 4 of the Hoses # bh-3mfs90-1-5 to connect to your new disc brakes.

expert reply by: Bud M