I have a tandem axle boat trailer that only has Drum brakes on one axle.The trailer is a leaf spring Eagle and they put the breaking axle in the rear.I think that the front is a better place because the eye end of the leaf spring is in tension when breaking.If the brakes are on the back axle, the eye end of the spring is in compression.What setup do other trailers have?

Thanks
Rob

Ive got a tripple with the front axle having the only brakes.

I've got a Dorsey and it's got brakes on both axles.

I think I would rather see the brakes on the first axle. Better/safer bet is disc brakes on BOTH axles. I upgraded my old trailer from single drums to twin discs and it worked great. I did it in my driveway (boat off the trailer) with hand tools in a weekend.

Check this link for info. First thread is my experience:
http://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/s...earchid=144082

Had a LoadRite and front axle brakes. Now have A Magictilt and front drums but went to 4 wheel discs. Changed front first and it didn't stop as well , so added rear.
I agree with your theory on how the springs are mounted.

I've got an Eagle also. I ordered it with brakes on both axles. I don't think it would be that hard to add a set to the front. Just buy the loaded backing plates, get some drums and a few new lines with a tee and you are good to go. I don't see a need for a Master cyl. upgrade. I'm sure they all use the same one.

Exactly. And the parts aren't that expensive. I paid $81 for a pair of brake assemblies and those are standard. If you have UFP axles and spindles which many/most boat trailers with leaf springs do, you can get the drums for about $40 a piece and that includes bearings, seals, nut and keeper and new lug nuts.

There's a $200 winter project!!