advice re. electric brakes for U-Haul CT-13

[Bridget T]

Hi there,
So this is a split from the thread about which car I should buy for city driving that morphed into a discussion about electric brakes.

So....... I will be putting electric brakes on my U-Haul CT-13. Anyone done this? Have advice as to what I should buy? A whole new axle from Dexter?
I have a knowledgeable rv mechanic who has worked on fiberglass before but not on a U-Haul. I am open to the board's advice.

(Oh, I will be towing with a 2010 Volvo C30)

Thanks in advance,
Bridget

[Francesca Knowles]

Hi, Bridget
If you have a mechanic you trust, I'd leave it to him to decide if you need a whole new axle, but if your axle's in good shape....
I don't know your wheel size, but here's an example of a Dexter brake assembly that can be purchased online atProducts tagged with 'Electric Brake' |Trailer Parts Online Store
Installation is fairly simple- I'd think it shouldn't take more than an hour or two of Shop Time.


Francesca


Electric Brake 10"x2.25" Right Dexter Nev-R-Adjust,3.5K
$49.99

[CindyL]

Bridget,

I believe that you will need to also replace your wheel rims, due to the proprietary Uhaul rims.

This is something that I think I would like us to do someday in the future, so that we don't have to experience the fear of broken proprietary parts while on the road. It happened to us once when our hub blew, but we just happened to find a Uhaul dealer who fixed trailers and who happened to have two hubs in his remaining inventory (dealers are no longer allowed to keep parts, according to him).

CindyL

[Bridget T]

Hi Cindy,
The previous owner actually did something (he worked on cars a lot) that allowed him to change the wheels. So I don't have U-Haul wheels.
I attached a photo that shows a wheel (which I think is rather ugly but has gotten compliments at rallies).
I was thinking of just getting a new axle along with the brakes - a get it done once type of thing.

If I do that I will put aside the old axle in case anyone wants it.

Bridget

Originally Posted by CindyL

Bridget,

I believe that you will need to also replace your wheel rims, due to the proprietary Uhaul rims.

This is something that I think I would like us to do someday in the future, so that we don't have to experience the fear of broken proprietary parts while on the road. It happened to us once when our hub blew, but we just happened to find a Uhaul dealer who fixed trailers and who happened to have two hubs in his remaining inventory (dealers are no longer allowed to keep parts, according to him).

CindyL

[CindyL]

That is good. I love your CT's name.
Our VT has surge brakes that the hubby is working on right now.

CindyL

[Perry J]

You will need an electric brake drum kit. It's going to cost about $230.00+ shipping for the pair.
I've ordered several brake kits and 2 drum kits from NorthernTool.com.
I live in California and their prices, including shipping, is less expensive than I can find locally. They're a great company to deal with.
You axel is 26 Y.O.. If you need an axel you would be better of getting an axel with brakes.
John

[Perry J]

I have been reminded that U Haul is a different breed of trailer with unique parts.
You may not find add on brake kits for your trailer unless it comes from directly from U Haul.
The most economical way to add brakes may be to change your 26 YO axle for a new one with brakes.
John