[A/S] Disc brakes.

["Andrew Rogozinski" <andyrogozinski@xxxxxxxxx>]

Disc brake conversions from electric brakes, have become a reasonable 
reality, cost wise.

The kits that are available come with simple installation 
instructions. Most people that are handy with a few tools, can easily 
make the installations.

The major cost is for the actuator itself. The same actuator is used 
for a single, tandem or triple axle trailer. In addition to the 
actuator you must have a "disc brake" conversion kit for each wheel. 
Those kits contain all the parts that are needed, such as the rotor, 
caliper, bearings, mounting brackets, grease seal, and grease cap. 
Additionally, a steel hydraulic brake line kit must be used. They 
come in single, tandem and triple axle packages. Some suppliers also 
add the lug nuts, mounting hardware, insulated clamps for the steel 
lines, and grease.

If someone has reasonable mechanical abilities, a tandem installation 
will take the do-it-yourselfer, about 10 to 12 hours to make the 
conversion. One of the neat things that you can do, is hide the 
actuator under a lounge, or in a closet, or in one of the access 
compartments. That installation, will also keep the actuator from the 
weather. 

Needless to say, disc brakes are far superior to electric brakes, any 
day of the week, and for many reasons, along with providing much more 
stopping power.

As with anything new, use caution as to what brand system you may 
consider for purchase.

There are a small number of major size companies, whose products at 
this point have stood the test of time.

Unfortunately, there are some other brands that have actuators that 
simply do not put out the necessary pressure to stop properly, 
especially for weights more than 4000 pounds or so. As the Airstream 
factory found out, some calipers may hit the tires as they are too 
large unless you use off-set wheels. Generally speaking, off-set 
wheels don't work on an Airstream trailer, as they may hit the wheel 
wells.

If you think you may be interested in making the "disc brake 
conversion", we urge you to stay away from the "knock-off" brands. In 
this case, performance and safety are the real issues, and costs 
therefore should be secondary.

The Airstream factory, at this point, offers disc brakes as an 
option, on some models.

Andy
Inland RV Center, Inc.