Converting A 2021 East To West Tandara 5th Wheel Trailer To Electric-Over-Hydraulic Disc Brakes

Updated 10/14/2024 | Published 10/10/2024

Question:

I have a 2021 East to West Tandara 5th wheel. 2 6000 pound Dexter axles. Considering changing drum brakes to disc. I am wrench handy so I would do the work myself. I see that you have kits for 6K axles but post no pictures of parts. Are the rotors drilled/slotted for heat dissipation? What is the pad material and are replacements available locally at the auto parts store? Is a line schematic available for me to look at to plan the install? Thank you for your help.

asked by: George T

Expert Reply:

Hey George,

This kit is actually pretty new for us so we haven't had a chance to get photos on the site yet, but is sitting down in our photo department waiting for its turn so they should be up soon. The rotors are slip on for a 6 on 5-1/2" idler hub and only have vents on the outer ring of the rotor and does not have any for the inner hub potion.

The brake pads included in the Hydrastar Disc Brake Kit w/ Actuator for Tandem Axle Trailers # HYD37VR are Hydrastar's 225 Caliper brake pads which are ceramic. Some brands use generic sizing so that you can use brake pads from a local store but that's not always the case. We haven't been able to test fitment with other branded brake pads yet but essentially if you find some that match dimensionally they're gonna work so there is the chance you can find some locally. I'm working on getting the specific pads for this kit added to our site as well to avoid any guessing games.

I unfortunately don't have a schematic but I've attached one of my installation videos for a similar kit that just had the brake lines that you can check out for some tips on running your brake lines. If you have any other questions just let me know and I'd be happy to help.

expert reply by: Kevin C

rotor front view
(click to enlarge)

rotor side view
(click to enlarge)

George

10/14/2024

Kevin, I have 6k axles. Shouldn’t your statement say 6 on 5 1/2 inch? Picture shows 6 stud holes.

Kevin C.

10/14/2024

@George Yes, it should. I copied that portion from the product page but can clearly see that's a typo now so I'll get that updated. Sorry for the confusion.