Converting From Hydraulic Drum Brakes to Disc Brakes

Updated 05/20/2025 | Published 05/15/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator w/ Electric Lockout - Disc - Zinc - 2" Ball - 7,000 lbs

(125)

$212.44

DeeMaxx Disc Brake Kit - 10" Hub/Rotor - 5 on 4-1/2 - Maxx Coating - 3,500 lbs

(52)

$671.49

Replacement Trailer Hub Bearing - L44649

(2099)

$20.76

Replacement Trailer Hub Bearing - L68149

(2099)

$11.61

Question:

Looking to change my boat trailer from hydraulic surge breaks to disc brakes the GVWR of the trailer is 3520 and the tires are 14x5.5J, do you have any recommendations?

asked by: Mike B

Expert Reply:

Hi Mike; can you send me your axle information? Is it a 3,500 lb axle? If I had to guess it is likely a 3,500 lb axle on there right now. Assuming you have the standard 3,500 lb bearing combination you can use the DeeMaxx Disc Brake Kit # DE66YR. This uses # L68149 inner and # L44649 outer bearings.

You already have the hydraulic lines so the only other thing would be an actuator for disc brakes. Assuming you want a coupler for a 2" ball and have a 3" wide tongue the # DM62VR you looked at will work. If you have a different axle, or if you want an electric over hydraulic setup, let me know in the comments below.

expert reply by: Robin H

DeeMaxx Disc Brake Kit
(click to enlarge)

Mike

5/19/2025

I do have the 3500 lb axle. Thank you

Mike B.

5/19/2025

Not sure if this changes the actuator but this is a EZ load A frame tongue. Currently it is welded on .

Robin H.

5/20/2025

@MikeB it depends on how that is set up. If it doesn't extend out beyond the top of the "A" but has a 3" wide mounting point running to the tip of the "A" on the inside where the current one is welded you could bolt this on there or go ahead and weld it on. You could also get a weld-on style actuator like # DX63FR. If you aren't sure feel free to reply with an email and send some pictures.