Should I Convert My Trailer To Disc Brakes And Other Disc Brake Questions
Updated 06/11/2024 | Published 06/04/2024
Question:
I have been debating in changing the drum brakes to disc. In reviewing comments on google. Some people were/are having troubles with the actuator working with chevy pickups. Has that been resolved? When it is time to replace the pads do you typically have to replace the disc as well ? I have been reading that most disc and drum can no longer be cut/shaved. If the answer on the disc is yes. Can you provide a ballpark price for the disc and pads?.
asked by: Luis O
Expert Reply:
Hello Luis, thanks for reaching out. Switching over to disc brakes definitely has some benefits. Electric over hydraulic (EOH) disc brakes provide more effective braking and are more durable than electric drum brakes.
There are known compatibility issues with EOH brakes and certain Chevy factory brake controllers. Depending on what year chevy truck you have, there may be compatibility issues. In some cases, an adapter module can be added to correct this. In most cases, we recommend that you just use an EOH compatible aftermarket controller like the Tekonsha P3 # 90195.
As far as replacing the pads and rotors, generally I would recommend replacing both at the same time. This can depend on the condition of the rotors though. If you put a lot of miles on your trailer and wear down the pads quickly, the rotors may be ok to re-use as long as they are not too rusty or worn. The last few times I have done a brake job I have done pads and rotors at the same time, so that is what I recommend doing.
To convert your trailer to disc brakes, you will need a disc brake kit, brake line kit, electric over hydraulic actuator and a breakaway kit. You will also need an EOH compatible electric trailer brake controller in your vehicle. Depending on how many braking axles you have, and what parts you go with, I would put the ballpark price at like $2,000-$3,000. I am happy to send you some recommendations if you like. I will need to know more specifics on your trailer though. Specifically, the axle capacity/bearing sizes, hub bolt pattern and trailer length.
For example, the Hydrastar # HSE7K-T1 kit you were looking at is a complete conversion kit for two 7,000 rated axles and it uses the 8 on 6-1/2 bolt pattern. It comes with a 15' long main brake line, so we would want to confirm that this will be long enough for your trailer. Other than that, the conversion kit will include everything needed, save for the brake controller.
If you do not have 7K 8 lug axles, feel free to drop your trailer info in the comments below and I can send you a parts list. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Hydrastar Disc Brake Kit w/ Actuator for Tandem Axle Trailers - 13" Hub/Rotor - 8 on 6-1/2 - 7K
- Trailer Brakes
- Disc Brakes
- Marine Grade
- 8 on 6-1/2 Inch
- Hub and Rotor
- 1/2 Inch Studs
- 7000 lbs Axle
- 16 Inch Wheel
- 16-1/2 Inch Wheel
- Hydrastar
more information >
Continue Researching
- Search Results: tekonsha 90195
- Search Results: tekonsha 90195 p3
- Video: Breaking Down the Americana Metal, Bolt-In Valve Stem
- Video: Checking Out the Americana Metal, Bolt-In Valve Stem
- Search Results: dexter lug nuts
- Search Results: metal valve stems
- Search Results: metal valve stem
- Video: Breaking Down the Goodyear Endurance ST205/75R15 Radial Tire w/ 15" Silver Modular Wheel
- Shop: Electric Trailer Brake Assembly for Lippert ABS Hubs - 12" - Right Hand - 5,200 to 7,000 lbs
- Shop: Replacement Brake Adjustment Screw Kit for 10" and 12" Electric Trailer Brake Assemblies
- Shop: Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for Lippert ABS System - 5.2K - 6K Axles - 12-15/16" - 6 on 5-1/2
- Shop: Replacement Adjusting Screw and Spring for Dexter 12-1/4 x 2-1/2 Electric Brake Assemblies
- Shop: Dexstar Steel Mod Trailer Wheel - 15" x 5" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 - Nardo Gray
- Shop: Hydrastar Disc Brake Kit w/ Actuator for Tandem Axle Trailers - 12" Rotor - 6 on 5-1/2 - 6K
- Search Results: goodyear endurance
- Shop: Goodyear Endurance ST205/75R15 Radial Tire w/ 15" Silver Modular Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR D
- Search Results: trailer brakes
- Q&A: Recommended Tire Pressure for ST205/75R15 Load Range D Trailer Tire by Westlake
- Q&A: How to Determine Correct Disc Brake Hub & Rotor Kit For Boat Trailer
- Q&A: Parts Needed To Add Brakes To Single Axle Boat Trailer
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: Installation Time for Blue Ox BX1128 Flat Tow Base Plate Kit for 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Video: Measuring To Choose The Right Trailer Axle
- Q&A: Comparing Kenda KR03, KR35, And KR53 Tires
on Trailer Brakes
