I got myself a new (old) trailer. What about the brakes?

[danlott]

Got me a new (old) trailer. Best part is it was free!!!!!!! I am going to make a large teardrop trailer for 4. Similar to the campster, but more with the lines of the 2x2. Probably have a trolley top also. I have the plans partly in sketchup, but mostly in my mind. The trailer is going to work out great with minor mods to both the frame and my plans. Hey, can't bet free.

My question has to do with the brakes. This trailer has surge brakes. It is a 1950's something camper. The accuator looks to be frozen and in need of repair or replacement. The brake lines will also need to be replaced. I do not know the condition of the hubs and brakes. I think it would be cheaper, easier and better to swap out for electric brakes. I already have a controller in my truck. Would the existing hubs work with new brakes? Would I have to get new hubs? What other suggestions do you guys have?

Dan

[Dale M.]

If it were me, I would take a ruler and measure the bolting dimensions for the backing brake plates and do a stroll through some of the internet trailer sites. If you find something (backing plates) that bolts up, the next question is will hubs and drums fit spindle.....

I don't think the existing drums will work, since electrics require the magnets to engage against drum.... The hydraulics drums are probably not machined correctly to accept electrical components.... The actual hubs them selves may be workable if you can fine correct brake components..

Electrics make more sense to make a cleaner setup and do away with the surge unit.... Some time with welder and new hitch assembly would really make a clean setup...

The alloy wheels might polish up really nice with some time with buffer and some compounds...

Other that brake issues, you got a really good find there....

Dale

[zukimoo]

take the system that is there apart and see if you can work with it. You're going to have to swap some parts to switch it over. The size you are building would need brakes around here. Sometimes free ends up costing more money and taking more energy.

[danlott]

I measured the brake mount flange spacing and it looks like it is the same as new dexter 10" brake assemblies. I have look online and do not see why I could not use the existing hubs and just get new electric brake assemblies. If you buy new electric or hydraulic brake assemblies it appears that they use the same hubs. Should be able to get new electric assemblies for under $100. Then replace the hitch or just stripe down existing surge accuator and blot/weld hitch in place. Let me know what everyone thinks.

Thank you,
Dan

[Dale M.]

My only concern is that your existing hub/drum assembly may not be designed for electric brakes... If you pull drum and look inside there is a band of machined metal about 3 inches wide in the vertical plan of hub next to outer shoe area... This area is where magnet are attracted to when energized, the area are has to be perfectly smooth so magnets can slip along surface (also head end of studs can not protrude into this area)... If your hubs do not have this machined area the magnets and hub will grind them selves to pieces in very short time and you will have to start over.... Also consider stud spacing of hub/drums if you order new ones.... Not all are the same, the studs are on various bolt circles... If you plan to use same wheels be sure stud pattern match....

At some point you will have to stop measuring and procrastinating and just order parts and do it.........

As for hitch, if you are going to do any frame modifications (welding) I would have new hitch put on. Cost is minimal and it will be a lot cleaner than the "made over" surge unit....

Dale

[danlott]

Dale,

Very good points you bring up. I will check the hubs out, might just have to get new ones. The bolt spacing is 5 x 4.5 on the wheels. Pretty common and I would be sure to get the same ones.

I am just planning this trailer and just starting to get parts. I am currently remodeling my house, so this will probably be a spring project next year. Just trying to save money where I can.

Dan