Switching From Hydraulic Brakes To Electric Brakes On Karavan Trailer With 2005 Bayliner 185BR Boat

Updated 08/26/2025 | Published 08/23/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Straight Tongue Trailer Coupler - eZ-Latch - Silver - 2" Ball - Bolt On - 10,000 lbs

(282)

$74.28

Bright Way Trailer Breakaway Kit with Charger, LED Tester, and 5 Ah Battery - Side Load

(434)

$56.71

etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K

(3187)

$163.80

Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 3,500-lb Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2 - Galvanized

(110)

$164.17

Question:

I have a 2005 Bayliner 185BR on a Karavan trailer. I few years ago I rebuilt the hydraulic brakes using parts from here. Recently they locked up and blew out a tire. I want to replace the whole system with electric brakes. What parts do I need?

asked by: Brett W

Expert Reply:

Hey Brett, yes I see you ordered some Kodiak hydraulic brake lines a a little over 3 years ago. Looks like your Karavan trailer is single axle, but you'll need to verify what size your axle or brakes are, along with what your current coupler type is.

You likely have surge brakes now, right? If not, this will be easier. But if you DO have surge brakes then you'll need to replace the coupler with a standard coupler such as marine grade Demco Straight Tongue Trailer Coupler # DM15000-52. Then after bolting that on you can install your new electric drum brakes along with Bright Way Trailer Breakaway Kit # 3802346 (surge brakes have a lever style switch that cannot be reused with electric).

You likely have a 3,500lb axle (check if diameter is 2-3/8" and has axle tag anywhere - should also be 5 lug). After confirming that it's a 3,500lb axle, you can install etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes 10" 3.5K # AKEBRK-35-SA and then the hub/drum combo 5 on 4-1/2 - Galvanized # AKHD-545-35-G-K.

If you need any other help or realize you for some reason have a different axle or coupler setup, let me know and I'll get you taken care of Brett.