Boat trailer brake type options?????

Submitted: Monday, Jul 28, 2008 at 13:40
ThreadID: 60240 Views:5593 Replies:2 FollowUps:2
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Hi again all
Boat trailer brakes options?I like the disk type as there is not much to go wrong or get damaged from water.
I asume the drum type would not be a great choice for this application?
I have seen electric disc on a new boat trailer but am not sure if they are good? too expensive or even who supplys them as i have asked SA trailers and they said they were not even made, but i have seen them.

I have override disc on an older trailer at present and they have been quite good, but this is a hevier trailer and wondering if on a lighter trailer if overide will work as well?

Also if using over ride system, can you still use a treg hitch?

Many thanks GN
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Reply By: Member - Matt (Perth-WA) - Monday, Jul 28, 2008 at 14:15

Monday, Jul 28, 2008 at 14:15
GN My opinon is that the disc over-ride is the best for harsh conditions....but that from a service point of view. In performanace there is no self energising action in discs so that tends to makes drums a more effective brake.

Yes you can have an over-ride brake setup using a treg or trigg hitch, but you have to change the hitch to an over-ride version(usually just the trailer comonent).

Me I like the simplicity or the o/r disc and will be fitting them to my camper trailer so the trailer can be lent out to family without having to install an eletric brake controller!

All the best.

Matt.
AnswerID: 317666

Follow Up By: Member - G N (VIC) - Monday, Jul 28, 2008 at 14:36

Monday, Jul 28, 2008 at 14:36
Hi Matt
Thanks for that, that is also my feeling after having a good run with overide disc previously.

Good to hear i may be on the right track, will look into the trg coupling.
Regards
GN
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Reply By: roblin - Monday, Jul 28, 2008 at 15:41

Monday, Jul 28, 2008 at 15:41
Mate, I think the other issue with boat trailer brakes is the ability to clean them after use. Discs are easy to clean, as are the calipers and mechanisms. Drums would tend to hold the water (and thus the corrosive salt) internally and create all srts of problems. Drums also rely on small gauge springs for the action which woudl corrode quickly if not suitably treated.
Personally, I have only had discs on a boat trailer and, for what was needed, they weren't an issue. You say a lighter trailer. I assume you are still talking about a gross mass of >750kg otherwise the rig doesn't legally require brakes.
Rob
AnswerID: 317678

Follow Up By: Member - G N (VIC) - Monday, Jul 28, 2008 at 16:03

Monday, Jul 28, 2008 at 16:03
Hi Rob
Yes i guess it makes simple sense, but the boat is for fresh water use only and i guess many camp trailers see plenty of water with their electric brakes i was thinking.

Yes will be touch and go with the 750kg limit i guess, but with some camp stuff added i am sure it would tip the scales and i am thinking easier to add brakes while building than redo later?

regrds GN
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