n20michael

Hey Guys!

My Baja came on a "Champion" trailer, does anyone know anything about them? Its a bunk style trailer, aluminum, and seems to be really well built? The only thing I found strange was it didn't have brakes? but, I suppose they are easy to add.

I have seen a pile of "Champion" race car trailers back in my drag racing days, but, they where usually VERY high dollar pieces, so, I doubt the companies are connected, any info would be great!

Secondly, when adding brakes, I realize that drums are much cheaper and much easier to install [no brake lines] but, are the disc brakes worth the extra money? There is a sale on now at "Princess Auto" I can get a brand new set of Kodiak disc brakes [2 rotors, 2 calipers, 2 brackets and seals/bearings] for about $110, I would need 2 sets obviously since my trailer is dual axle. Apart from that, what else is needed? brake lines and a new front hitch mount with the controller for surge brakes, or should I spring for the electric/hydraulic controller? Or just go with regular drums?

The boat is a 24ft Baja, I dont tow a lot, but, would like the peace of mind of knowing I have a good safe set up when I do. I have a launch ramp at the cottage, where I keep the boat, so, It does sit on the trailer for extended periods [including all winter] I use the boat and trailer in fresh water only.

Any Input? feel free to post, good or bad!

Thanks!
Michael

CignificantOther

There is a Champion Trailer in Slidell, Louisiana that builds alum. trailers. They also sell parts, brakes, etc.

Griff

You still need brake lines for drum brakes.

For that price, I would just go with the Kodiak discs. You will also need an actuator and the backup solenoid. I don't see any reason to go elec over hyd for that size boat.

US1 Fountain

iTrader: (1)

Does your axles have the flanges on them for either the backing plates or caliper brackets?

n20michael

What brake lines are needed for drums? I was under the impression there was a power wire and a ground wire that ran from the brake shoes forward to the controller and that was it? What did I miss?

If you pull the rims off the trailer there are square plates with 4 holes in them at the end of each axle hub, I assume this is where the caliper brackets or backing plates bolt.

Other than that they dont "fade" what is the benefit [if any?] to disc brakes? As I mentioned earlier, the trailer does sit of extended periods of time, not sure if that makes a difference in which style would be better?

Thanks for the Input, and PLEASE keep it coming!

Michael

US1 Fountain

iTrader: (1)

There is confusion between electric drum brakes (similar to campers) that do just use wires vs hyd drum brakes, which require brake lines from couplers to wheels. The latter is the most common on boat trailers that get dunked

David Stotz

Champion Trailers 800-229-6690
PO Box 2029
Slidell, LA 70459
Never bought a trailer from them but they sell just about everything you could want for one. I order fron them all the time. Very knowledgeable. Helped me convert my drum to disc brakes.
Dave

n20michael

Thanks David! I appreciate the contact info!

US1, Thanks! I appreciate the info, I wasn't aware that they made drums that had brake lines, I was under the impression they where all like the ones used on car trailers/RV's that just use "wires" not lines

I assume its because the drums with wires cant get wet without ruining the electric stuff? Other than Ebay, are there any other good sites to look for brakes? any manufacturer better than another, or are there any I should stay away from?

Thanks for the help guys, I appreciate it!

Michael

Griff

The best prices I have found for quality parts. I just replaced all 6 drum brake plates last summer on my trailer.
http://www.easternmarine.com/em_stor...FRNeswodUUUk6A