Difference Between etrailer and Demco Hydraulic Trailer Brakes

Updated 09/14/2025 | Published 08/26/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Hydraulic Trailer Brakes - Uni-Servo - Galvanized - 10" - Left/Right - 3.5K

(55)

$139.67

etrailer Hydraulic Trailer Brakes - Uni-Servo - Dacromet - 10" - Left/Right - 3.5K

(195)

$128.87

Mounting Hardware for 10" Brake Assemblies

(433)

$21.39

Question:

Looking to get new surge brakes for my boat trailer. I see two products that would seem to fit: AKUBRK-35-D and 18788-87. What are the differences and would you recommend one over the other and why? Thanks

asked by: Brent N

Expert Reply:

Hey Brent! The etrailer # AKUBRK-35-D fit 13"-15" wheels and come with a 2-year warranty. The Demco # 18788-87 fit 14" or 15" wheels and come with a 1-year warranty. Outside of that, and the slight difference in cost, I would expect similar performance from both. These are both 10" x 2-1/4" designed for 3,500 lb axles with a standard 4-bolt brake flange. Personally, I would choose the etrailer brakes for the better warranty.

Any big trips planned with your boat trailer before summer wraps up?

expert reply by: Robin H

etrailer Hydraulic Trailer Brakes
(click to enlarge)

Robin H.

9/12/2025

Hey Brent, did you decide to go with the etrailer brakes for your boat trailer? I'd love to hear how they worked out for you, as it could help others make a decision too.

Brent N.

9/12/2025

@RobinH Thanks for the good info to help me decide. In the end, I went with the etrailer brand brakes. They are now installed and worked great on the first test drive out. They were easy to install, easy to bleed, and required no adjustment at the start. I would recommend them for those points. I will know in a couple of years about their longevity :-) One more point - I purchased the nuts and lock washers package with them. Saved me a trip to the hardware store. That sped up my install. Thanks, Robin, for the info and guidance!!!