Adding Electric Drum Brakes To 1999 Ranger Boat Trailer
Updated 10/27/2025 | Published 03/02/2025
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Question:
Hello, I have a 1999 Ranger 518 DVX bass boat and want to change out the surge brakes, which hasnt worked in who knows how long. I would like to do electric brakes if possible, my truck has the round connector, and Ill need new bearing for the trailer as well. Its a stock trailer, the serial is 4WRBD181XX1075410. Would changing out to oil bath hubs make sense?
asked by: Rick D
Expert Reply:
Hey Rick, thanks for reaching out. We should certainly have the parts you need to put electric brakes on your trailer, but unfortunately there is no way to use the VIN to know exactly what parts you will need. Trailer manufacturers just do not make this info available online.
I can still point you in the right direction though. The main things I will need to know is the weight capacity of your axle, and your bearing sizes. The best way to determine this will be to pull a hub and remove the bearings. Each bearing will have a number stamped on the edge, or you can measure the ID with a micrometer. I would also need to know your wheel bolt pattern, if you intend to use the current wheels.
What I usually recommend doing is starting with a 7-way and junction box like part # e99011, then use wire like part # 12-2-1 to the brakes. You will also want to switch out the surge actuator for a standard coupler like part # DM15000-52.
The link below will show you our help article for adding electric brakes. Let me know that axle capacity and bearing sizing and I will get back to you with the correct hubs and brake assemblies. I can also see if we have an oil bath option for you.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 4,400-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long
- Trailer Leaf Springs
- Double Eye Springs
- 9/16 Inch Eye
- Nylon Bushings
- 4400 lbs
- 1-3/4 Inch Wide
- 4 Leaf
- 25-1/4 Inch Long
- Standard Grade
- Dexter
more information >
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Jesse M.
10/27/2025
Hey Rick, were you able to pull a hub and find the bearing numbers or axle capacity for your Ranger trailer? Once you have that info, I can help match the right hubs and brake assemblies. Let me know what you find so we can see if an oil bath setup makes sense too.