Adding Trailer Brakes

[CadCruzer]

Does anybody know if it is possible to add surg brakes to a boat trailer that does not have brakes now. Is their anything to look for on the trailer, brackets,ect. . I have a Karavan trailer that carries my 17' Lund and a 115 4 stroke. so if possible I would like to put on brakes. My tow vehicle is a 2005 F150, 5.4.

Thanks for your help

[Dozer]

If your trailer axle has a brake mounting flange it could be done. Felling trailers out of Sauk Centre, and Norther Tool sell all the stuff you would need.

[john.wells]

You would be better off going with an electric braking system. You don't legally need them with a unit under 3000 lbs, but they aren't a bad idea if you have braking or control issues. Your truck should have more than adequate brakes to handle your rig. If you look at all involved in retrofitting brakes onto a trailer, you will be better off selling that trailer and buying one that has all of the goodies you are looking for.

[JohnMickish]

You can put brakes on your trailer for about $500. That's either surge disk or electric drums (price includes controler). Northern tool sells complete kits. I looked into doing it and thought about just getting a newer trailer too. A new Shorelandr full roller with brakes and swing tongue is $3500. I figure a guy could maybe get $1000 for my 10 year old Shorelandr trailer.

I'm purchasing a brake kit this summer.