How to Install Electric Trailer Brakes

Electric brakes are the easiest way to add brakes to a trailer that was not equipped with brakes when built. With no need to run tubing or bleed, electric brakes are also simpler and install more quickly than do disc or drum hydraulic brakes. Electric brakes can be added to any trailer, but their use is not recommended on boat trailers

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Electric brake kit Solderless ring terminals Solderless butt connectors 14 gauge automotive wire

1. Jack up the trailer and remove the wheels and hubs.

2. Bolt the new brake assemblies on the brake mounting flange. If flanges are not in place on the ends of the axle tube they must be welded on.

3. Pack the bearings in your new hub/brake drum assembly with high temperature wheel bearing grease. Install the inner bearing and grease seal and slide them onto the axle.

4. Install the outer bearing and lock nut. Adjust the wheel bearing tension, install a new cotter pin and the dust cover.

5. Connect a solderless ring terminal to one of the wires from the brake assembly and attach it to the trailer frame using a self-tapping screw.

Tips & Warnings

• Run a wire from the trailer hitch area to the left brake. Splice this wire to the other wire from that brake using a solderless butt connector. Splice in to this wire using a Scotchlok connector and run another wire across the axle and connect to the second wire on that brake. Use 14-gauge automotive wire for all wiring.

Resources

• Using Scotchlok connectors
• Using solderless connectors