Should I replace or fix my trailer brakes?

[rs2k]

One of my trailer's hydraulic drum brakes layed down a smoke screen on the say to the lake. I believe it is a bad brake cylinder. Any idea on if these parts are somewhat universal? I have surge brakes now, but would it be worth changing the system to electric? By the time I replace all the old hydraulic and mechanical components, getting new kits might be a better deal.

This trailer tows around my 28' twin engine cabin cruiser. It only has two axles. The brake back plate is bolted to the axle a 5 bolt pattern. The brake drum and wheel hub are one piece and are held on by the wheel bearing retaining nut. This trailer is used in fresh water right now, but it will be spending a lot of time in salt water starting this winter.

Would it be a better idea to repair what I have or go with something new?

 

[dingbat]

Re: Should I replace or fix my trailer brakes?

Don't know about you but I have more money than time anymore. Figuring out what's needed, disassembling the thing, buying new parts and installing them is time comsuming. Not to mention you'll probably spent 75% of what you would spent if you just went out and purchased new assemblies.

Here is the kicker. Drum brakes will not last more than a couple of seasons in Saltwater. Electric drum brakes will not last even that long.

Disc is the only way to go in SW

 

[rs2k]

Re: Should I replace or fix my trailer brakes?

If I go ahead and change to disc brakes will I have to change anything in the surge coupler or master cylinder? I know it takes more force to activate a disc brake than it does a drum brake.

 

[Snowfish]

Re: Should I replace or fix my trailer brakes?

Yes, You'll need a New Surge Disc Brake Actuator. You may need a new one now, if it hasn't been flushed in a while. Open the fill cap and draw some fluid from the bottom of the master cylinder. If muddy looking fluid comes out, with chunky, flakey stuff, you're lines and/or cylinders are plugged. New backer plates are the only way to go. But be sure to flush the old actuator really good. Otherwise you'll be pushing the same mud and crud into your new brakes. All surge brakes should be flush every other season.

 

[rs2k]

Re: Should I replace or fix my trailer brakes?

I flushed the brakes a few weeks ago. This may be why this brake is now acting up.

 

[Snowfish]

Re: Should I replace or fix my trailer brakes?

Yep. Probably dislodged some flakey crud. Plugged a line or brake cylinder. Sounds like a thorough master cylinder & line flush is needed along with new backers. Always replace in pairs. Curb Side and Road Side.

 

[Titanium48]

Re: Should I replace or fix my trailer brakes?

The brake back plate is bolted to the axle a 5 bolt pattern.

That might be hard to find, most brake flanges are 4-bolt. If you can't find replacement brake assemblies that will fit you'll either need to replace the worn parts on the old ones or replace the entire axle.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Should I replace or fix my trailer brakes?

Yes, You'll need a New Surge Disc Brake Actuator.

This is not true. Any surge brake actuator can be converted to disc use by simply removing, or poking a hole thru, the residual valve from the actuator.