Disc Brake Conversion: How To Do It Yourself
August 8th, 2019
So, you've put a lot of thought into it, and you're almost ready to purchase a disc brake conversion kit. Now you need to figure out how you're going to get it installed. One excellent care-free option is to let Performance Trailer Braking connect you with one of our approved independent installers. If you'd rather save some money and are comfortable with a DIY involving electrical and mechanical, you could also install the system yourself. PTB is here to help either way. If you're thinking about a DIY, you've come to the right page.
On this page, we'll walk you through the high-level steps you'll want to take to install the kit yourself. Please note that these are just very high level steps to get you in the right direction. When you purchase your kit, we'll provide you with a much more detailed step-by-step installation guide which will give you specifications for your install. You can also watch our video which will help walk you through the process and as always, feel free to contact us via phone or email.
Step 1: Prepare
Preparation is a necessary step in any project, and a trailer disc brake upgrade is no exception. You'll want to set up your workspace, verify you received all necessary parts, and remove your tires and wheels.
Step 2: End Kit Installation
In this step, you'll remove the old electric brakes and install the new hubs, rotors, and calipers.
Step 3: Install Actuator
Next, you'll mount and wire the actuator to the place of your choosing.
Step 4: Install Brake Lines
After the actuator is installed, you'll need to run the brake lines to your calipers.
Step 5: Bleed the Lines
Once the brake lines are installed, you'll need to bleed the lines and test the actuator to ensure smooth operation.
Step 6: Clean Up and Testing
Finally, you'll want to test your brakes before getting on the road to ensure they are operating correctly. When you're all done, you'll want to clean up and then enjoy your new brakes!
"I have renewed confidence"
Mike, Just wanted to thank you for the kit and all the help and advice throughout the install. We are loading up for our second trip since completing the disk brakes and they work flawle Read Moressly! ...I have renewed confidence while towing about 15K trailer down the road!
Dirk Geib
Yucaipa, CA
"Wow, what a difference!"
Just finished having Disc Brakes installed yesterday by "Bill" the installer for Performance Brakes. Wow, what a difference! After completing yesterday we left on a 175 mile test journey Read More. Drove two lane twists, small towns, and freeway. The braking ability is much more than I expected. During my test ride with installer he had me do a hard brake situation going about 25 mph and we came to a stop in about half the distance of my old brakes. These brakes give you a lot of comfort when driving knowing I can stop quickly if needed. Interestingly, the old brakes which we took off only had about 8k miles on them and the pads were half worn and the eltromagnets were badly worn on two of the wheels. Granted we do more two lane twisty road driving than freeway driving. Bill the installer was very meticulous about his work and in addition found some wires that weren't crimp right (not related to brakes) and fixed them without saying anything until he was done. I would recommend him without any hesitation for Brakes and suspension work. I will report back if there's any change after our 175 mile trip home tomorrow.
Dave Lannoy
NROA Forum Member
"The whole experience was exceptional"
Today John and Barbara came to our home in Virginia and installed the disk brake system. It was an exceptional installation. The equipment is very high quality. John and Barbara are a te Read Morerrific team. They showed up on time, went right to work, and displayed why their experience and expertise has made them the best. John and I took our truck and camper for a test/adjustment drive to ensure all was well and adjusted. The whole experience was exceptional. Feel free to use me as a reference for Performance Braking and their ace installers.
William DeCoste