Converting Surge brakes to Electric

[Waverunner]

I just bought a 2000 Rainer. I took it into the shop to have it checked out for any issues. They said my surge brakes are not working, and suggested I switch to Electric brakes. Is this a hard process? Expensive? Thank you.

[navman28]

If you haven't done this yet, it depends on your definition of expensive. You will need a brake controller installed and a new set of brake drums with the electrical actuator. Also, a 7 way installed if you don't have one already.

[bedrck46]

I had a 2000 Pop-up that had surge brakes and the actuator was bad I priced out elect brakes over a new actuator. Cost was very close. But that was not taking into the cost of a brake controller. I have towed with both surge and electric brakes My opinion is go with the electric's You will have better control over how the brakes work than you will have with surge brakes.


If you do go with electric they are easy to install as long as the mounting flange is already on the axel If not than one would be needed to be installed


Also consider that if you ever decide to go to a larger trailer that has electric brakes you will have the controller

[DocBrown]

I've had surge brakes on 2 pop-ups. They are better than nothing but not even close to the comfort and effectiveness of electric brakes.

https://www.etrailer.com/question-9702.html

https://www.etrailer.com/question-61161.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9BvXCI3vEVc