Electric or surge?

[vzett]

Well, hurricane Ivan turned me into a trailer boater for the near future. I have a 2-axle majic tilt that needs a complete brake overhaul including coupler and lines. My max load is ~4400 lbs and typical load is around 3900lbs. <br /><br />I have a new Dodge 1500 QC for pulling prewired for electric brakes and I'm considering my options. I've compared costs for the Fulton "Sharkskin" electric brakes to the Kodiak Stainless surge disc brakes. Complete install costs are comparable. I'm drawn to the electrics due to simplicity, relatively low cost ~$100 per hub for the major replacement parts, and theoretically better brake behavior on the highway. My main concern would be longterm reliability due to saltwater (I would install a flush kit). I could live with replacing the main components every 1-2 years. <br /><br />Has anyone else used the Fulton brakes in saltwater?<br /><br />Thanks,<br />zett

 

[cajun555]

Re: Electric or surge?

Vzett, IMHO, I would consider electric brakes. I read all these post about "are my surge brakes working". Now I never have had expereance with surge brakes but I have with electric brakes on a T/T. You can set the sensitivity of how the brakes start working, You can set up a break-a-way setup on electrics. To check the holding power just simply use manual switch on brake controller. <br /><br />I just think you can do more with electric brakes, but don't know how the will react with alot of dunking.

 

[JasonB]

Re: Electric or surge?

I have electrics under my 4000lb+ load and love them but I only use them in fresh water. My controller lets me know they are properly connected and gives me more settings to fine tune them than I will ever need. I disassembled them after 2 years of use and they almost looked new.

 

[PAkev]

Re: Electric or surge?

I believe I saw in a trailer supply catalog (not sure which one) an electric controlled actuator.<br /><br />This seems like the best of both worlds as you can utilize your controller to adjust for the prevailing towing conditions and keep wheel maintenance a little simpler.<br /><br /><br />Kevin

 

[speedwrench]

Re: Electric or surge?

It really comes down to personal preference. I have experence with both, and I prefer surg.<br />Nether are worth anything without proper maintenance. <br />What did you mean by "theoretically better brake behavior on the highway?" I haven't found that to be true IF both systems are working properly.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Electric or surge?

zett - I suspect you have bought whatever by now however - - I have been dropping trailers in salt water for over 30 years and hydraulic surge disk brakes are the only kind I would consider. I wouldn't even think about electric and drum brakes don't last six months even with flush kits and regular wash downs. Been there ----------.

 

[vzett]

Re: Electric or surge?

I bought the Tie-down vented disc brakes and also their disc-ready coupler w/electric lock-out solenoid. Installation was fairly easy and my initial impression is that they work very well. Total cost was ~$550 including shipping and new brake line/fittings.

 

[boater4life]

Re: Electric or surge?

Electric over hydraulic brakes are far superior which usually come with stainless steel disc. Just make sure you install a compatable brake controller. <br /><br />I've been using this system for years now and have not had a problem. I can't say enough about this system.

 

[boater4life]

Re: Electric or surge?

Sorry! Double clicked.