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Parts Needed To Switch 2012 All American Trailer From Surge Disc Brakes To Electric Drum Brakes  

Updated 08/26/2026 | Published 08/20/2026

Question:

Looking to get some guidance and information on what i will need to replace the braking system on my 2012 All American Trailer. 12000lbs with dual 6000lbs axles. Currently has the surge brake system and all rotors, discs, and reservoir are rusted. Thinking about changing to electric brakes as I will be pulling with a CyberTruck and roughly a 9500-10000lbs boat. Any suggestions or recommendations would be greatly appreciated. I can send pictures once an email chain is started. Thanks in advance, Thomas

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Expert Reply:

Hey Thomas, thanks for reaching out. Yes, we do have the parts you need to switch your trailer over from surge brakes to electric brakes. You'll need new brake assemblies, hub/drums, a 7-way trailer harness, a new coupler, a breakaway and an electric brake controller for your truck. Here is what I recommend:

- etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 5.2K to 7K # AKEBRK-7-SA

- Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 5.2K & 6K Axles - 12" - 6 on 5-1/2 - Pre-Greased # AKHD-655-6-EZ-K

- etrailer Trailer Wiring 7-Way Upgrade Kit w/ Junction Box and RV Style Connector # e99011

- Deka Jacketed 2 Wire, 10 Gauge, Brake Wire - per Foot # 10-2-1 (sold by the foot)

- Bright Way Trailer Breakaway Kit with Charger, LED Tester, and 5 Ah Battery - Side Load # 3802346

- Demco Channel Tongue Trailer Coupler - Zinc - 2-5/16" Ball - 3" Channel - Bolt On - 18K # DM13203-95

- Redarc Tow-Pro Link Bluetooth Brake Controller - Off-Road Mode - 4 Axles - Proportional # RED57AR

There are a few specs we will want to confirm here. The # AKHD-655-6-EZ-K hubs are for a standard 6K axle. They use the 25580 (1.75" inner diameter) inner bearing and 15123 (1.25" inner diameter) outer bearing. Most 6K axles use these same bearings, but I do suggest measuring the current bearings, or measuring the spindle just to be sure.

Also, the Demco # DM13203-95 fits a 3" wide straight tongue, so we will want to make sure that matches up with your trailer.

Lastly, the # RED57AR brake controller requires the truck to have a 7-way plug with a standard USCAR connector on the back. Virtually all factory 7-way plugs use this, but I do suggest double checking to make sure your CyberTruck has uses a USCAR.

We have an article that goes over the process of adding electric drum brakes to a trailer, and I've linked that for you below.

Do you usually launch your boat in fresh or salt water? What kind of boat do you have?



expert reply by:
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Jesse M
AKEBRK-7-SA
AKEBRK-7-SA
(click to enlarge)
Thomas A. profile picture

Thomas A.

8/26/2026

Thank you for the reply Jesse. I launch my boat in fresh water. My truck has built in brake control via 7-pin connections. Also i was wanting to do a 1for 1swap with my current brakes. I just wanted to make it where there is more control instead of the trailer using pressure/surge to help stop. I do not know the hub diameter at the moment as i have not broke everything down. Wanted to get all the parts and pieces to start the tear down. But i guess i need to do sooner. The trailer has (4) disc brakes currently and want the same going back. The brake actuator is a Titan Model 20 if this helps. Just trying to get this right. First time doing something like this.

Jesse M. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Jesse M.

8/26/2026

@ThomasA Ok gotcha I wasn't sure if those CyberTrucks came with a factory brake controller or not, so you'll be good to go there. Electric brakes definitely give you more control over the braking pressure compared to surge brakes. From here I just recommend confirming your bearing/spindle size, and the trailer tongue width. Once we know that we can nail down exactly what you need. Most 6K axles are standard but I still recommend verifying what you have before ordering. You'll need to either disable your Titan Model 20 actuator, or replace it with a standard coupler. Also keep in mind the hubs are sold individually, but the brakes are sold as a pair. Let me know if you have any other questions along the way. I am here to help!

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