How to Install Electric Brakes for Trailers
The braking system in your trailer is an essential componet in its overall safety. If for any reason you suspect an issue with the brake system in your trailer, you may want to consider adding an electric brake system. Doing so is fairly simple to do and will increase your saferty level while saving you money.
What You'll Need:
- Electric brake kit
- Solderless ring terminals
- Solderless butt connectors
- 14-gauge automotive wire
- Jack with jack stands
- High temperature wheel bearing grease
- Using a jack with jack stands, jack up your trailer and remove all of the wheels as well as the hubs. Ensure that the trailer is secure before proceeding.
- Begin bolting the new brake assembly onto the braking mounting flange. However, if the flanges have not been previously set into place on the ends of the axle tube, you'll first need to weld them on.
- Neatly begin packing the bearings on the new hub or brake drum assembly. Use a high temperature wheel bearing grease to complete this step.
- Install the inner bearing. Once installed use the high temperature wheel bearing grease to also grease it, then seal it and position it onto the axle.
- Next, you can install the outer bearing as well as lock out. You'll also need to install a new cotter pin and dust cover. Then, attach the tension for the wheel bearing.
- Take a solderless ring terminal and connect it to one of the wires on the brake assembly. Lastly, use a self-tapping screw to attach the unit to the trailer.