If you tow a larger fifth wheel or travel trailer, braking performance is an important part of your overall towing setup. Most towable RVs leave the factory with traditional electric drum brakes, but some owners choose to upgrade to a hydraulic disc brake system such as DeeMaxx.
Why make the change? The biggest reasons are improved braking response, more consistent braking performance and a braking system many owners prefer for heavier towable RVs.
Electric Drum Brakes vs. Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Traditional RV electric drum brakes use an electromagnet inside the brake assembly. When the tow vehicle’s brake controller sends power to the trailer, the magnet helps activate the brake shoes against the inside of the drum.
These systems have been used successfully on towable RVs for many years, but they contain multiple internal components that require inspection, adjustment and maintenance.
Hydraulic disc brakes work differently. An electric-over-hydraulic actuator converts the electrical braking signal from the tow vehicle into hydraulic pressure. That pressure operates brake calipers at the wheels, squeezing brake pads against the rotors.
Improved Braking Response
One of the primary reasons RV owners consider disc brakes is braking response.
A properly installed and functioning hydraulic disc brake system can provide strong, smooth and predictable braking. This can be especially attractive to owners towing larger and heavier fifth wheels and travel trailers.
Disc brakes also dissipate heat differently than enclosed drum brake assemblies, which can be beneficial when brakes are working hard.
Remember, however, that no brake upgrade changes safe towing practices. Proper loading, tire condition, tow vehicle capacity, following distance and driving for road and weather conditions remain essential.
Maintenance Is Different
Disc brakes still require maintenance—they aren’t a maintenance-free upgrade.
Brake pads, rotors, calipers, bearings, hydraulic lines, brake fluid and the electric-over-hydraulic actuator should all be inspected and serviced as appropriate.
One advantage is that disc brake components can generally be easier to visually inspect than brake shoes and hardware located inside a drum.
As with any RV braking system, routine inspection is important.
What Is Included in an RV Disc Brake Conversion?
Converting an RV from electric drum brakes to hydraulic disc brakes is more involved than simply changing the components at each wheel.
Depending on the RV and installation, a conversion may involve:
- DeeMaxx rotors, calipers and brake components
- Electric-over-hydraulic actuator
- Hydraulic brake lines and fittings
- Brake fluid
- Electrical wiring and connections
- Breakaway system integration
- Tow vehicle brake controller compatibility
- Wheel bearing and hub-related components
The complete system needs to work together correctly.
Why Larger RV Owners Consider the Upgrade
Owners of larger fifth wheels, toy haulers and travel trailers often invest in suspension, tires, hitches and other towing-related upgrades.
Brakes deserve the same consideration.
If you regularly travel through mountains, tow a heavier RV or simply want to improve your trailer’s braking system, a DeeMaxx hydraulic disc brake conversion may be worth considering.
Have Your Existing Brakes Inspected First
Before recommending an upgrade, the existing braking and running gear should be inspected.
Wheel bearings, axles, suspension components, tires and other related systems can affect the overall condition and safety of the RV.
An inspection also provides an opportunity to identify worn or damaged components while the RV is being prepared for the disc brake conversion.
Professional DeeMaxx Disc Brake Installation
A hydraulic disc brake conversion involves both mechanical and electrical work. Proper installation, hydraulic system bleeding, wiring and system testing are important parts of completing the upgrade.
At California RV Specialists LLC, we provide professional DeeMaxx disc brake installations and RV running-gear service for fifth wheels and travel trailers.
California RV Specialists LLC
200 S. Cherokee Lane
Lodi, CA 95240
209-263-7040
Your RV’s brakes are one of the most important systems between you and the road. If you’re considering upgrading from electric drum brakes to hydraulic disc brakes, have your current system inspected and determine whether a DeeMaxx conversion is right for your RV.
