HOW DO YOU MAKE A FRESH WATER BRAKE FLUSH KIT?

[Homerr]

I've seen the fresh water brake flush kits on a few web sites.<br /><br />The kit consists of some vinyl tubing and some basic garden hose connectors, but I am confused on how the hose(s) connects to the brake's backplates?<br /><br />Do you have to drill holes, or is there some kind of special connector here?<br /><br />I would buy the kit, but from the pictures I've seen (not mentioning the web site) the kit has at the most $10 in parts from your local hardware store.<br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />H.

 

[RJS]

Re: HOW DO YOU MAKE A FRESH WATER BRAKE FLUSH KIT?

I'm looking for a flush kit myself. They don't look that complicated. I think you could go to the hardware store and get the parts. It seems like the most complicated part is drilling the hole through the backplate and tapping a fitting into it. You could probably drill a hole and epoxy the hose to the backplate.

 

[Basenjib123]

Re: HOW DO YOU MAKE A FRESH WATER BRAKE FLUSH KIT?

Dont bother, Those washdown systems are useless in my opinion. I have used trailers with and without them and there is little if any difference. I have also spoken with several boaters that find the same conclusion. Just my 2 cents, Good Luck!

 

[RJS]

Re: HOW DO YOU MAKE A FRESH WATER BRAKE FLUSH KIT?

JHL,<br />Do you take any special precautions to flush the breaks after use? Operating in saltwater I would think that flushing the brakes with fresh water would greatly extend the life of the brakes. I just purchased a trailor with brakes and was considering installing a flush kit.

 

[Basenjib123]

Re: HOW DO YOU MAKE A FRESH WATER BRAKE FLUSH KIT?

Yes, I hose down my boat and trailer after every saltwater trip. I pay particular attention to the Wheel Hubs, Brakes and Springs areas. I cannot see any difference from doing that to using a flush system.

 

[RJS]

Re: HOW DO YOU MAKE A FRESH WATER BRAKE FLUSH KIT?

Thanks JHL,<br />Saved me some time and money.

 

[Spidybot]

Re: HOW DO YOU MAKE A FRESH WATER BRAKE FLUSH KIT?

If the design of your gear allows for it, make sure you do not go too far into the water. Stop well before the water level reaches the brake drums.<br /><br />This even makes your bearings last (almost) forever.<br /><br />Submerging bearings that are warm/hot from driving will cause a cool-down that creates a vacuum and sucks water into the bearings.