Question on upgrading disk brakes

[gcope63]

I have a 2001 Zieman tandem axle boat trailer that came from the dealer with disc brakes on the front axle only and want to upgrade it to have discs on both axles. Is this hard to do? Do I just have to add calipers and discs to the second axle and T in the brake lines? Are the brake manufactures pretty good about labeling their calipers so I would know what kind are on the front axles?

Thanks

Gary

 

[Bondo]

Re: Question on upgrading disk brakes

Ayuh,... If the other axle has the bracketry for it, Sure, Go ahead...

Generally speaking, All parts for about anything has Part #s stamped in it, which can ID what you've got...

 

[gcope63]

Re: Question on upgrading disk brakes

Sounds good, I took a look last night and the bracket I needed to mount the caliper is already on the axle. Thanks for the info!

Gary

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Question on upgrading disk brakes

If you can't figure out what's on there and the dealer is of no help. Post a picture of your existing brakes and I am sure someone on here will recognize them.

 

[Lou C]

Re: Question on upgrading disk brakes

I bet you can find out who is their brake supplier on their website...or e-mail them and ask and then you can find out where to buy them....

 

[jeeperman]

Re: Question on upgrading disk brakes

It is possible that you might have to also change the master cylinder to one with more fluid pushing capacity.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Question on upgrading disk brakes

It is possible that you might have to also change the master cylinder to one with more fluid pushing capacity.

Not likely...especially with disk brakes. None of the actuators being sold indicate if it is being used for one or two axles.

Typically, a master cylinder is only using a fraction of its total stroke when applying brakes assuming everything is adjusted right in the case of drum brakes and in the case of disk brakes there is very little throw used.

 

[Fl_Richard]

Re: Question on upgrading disk brakes

My accuator moves at most a 5/16" with a pair of 12" Kodiak's SS disc's. There is more slop in the assembly than the stroke.

 

[gcope63]

Re: Question on upgrading disk brakes

Finally got a chance to pull on of the wheels and I found UFP brakes on the front axle. Never heard of that brand but was able to find parts online. Does anyone have any experience with these units? Looks like it will cost around $500 to upgrade the other axle.

Gary

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Question on upgrading disk brakes

I have heard good things about UFP brakes. Yes, they aren't very common and are seen more as OEM brakes than aftermarket as you have found.

 

[Pez Vela]

Re: Question on upgrading disk brakes

I've been running their stuff for years because they are local (for me) and readily available. No complaints, but I've been told that I have the "old" versions of their products (which I believe have less SS components, e.g. calipers). I'd check with them to see exactly what you have before you just match your existing stuff without exploring other options in their product line.