Safety First: Installing Disc Brakes on the Magic Tilt

Towing a 31-foot boat with zero brakes is a recipe for disaster. We overhaul the trailer with a complete Dexter/UFP disc brake kit to ensure we can stop safely.

From Danger to Safety

When we bought the boat, the previous owner had removed the brake calipers entirely because they had rusted solid. This meant our truck was doing 100% of the braking for a 9,000lb load. To fix this, we installed a comprehensive Dexter/UFP 4-Bolt Flange Disc Brake Kit.

The Retrofit Process

1. Removing the Old Hubs

We started by removing the old, rusted hubs. This is a messy job involving old grease and seized bolts. Once the spindles were cleaned, we inspected them for wear to ensure they could accept the new bearings.

2. Installing the Actuator

The brake actuator (the sliding part on the trailer tongue) pushes hydraulic fluid to the brakes when the truck slows down. Our old one was frozen. We cut it off and welded on a new surge brake actuator designed specifically for disc brakes. *Note: Disc brakes require higher pressure than drum brakes, so you must use an actuator valved for discs.*

3. Running Lines and Bleeding

We replaced the corroded steel brake lines with flexible rubber lines, which are easier to route and won't rust. The final step was bleeding the system. Just like on the boat's steering, we had to purge all air from the lines to ensure the calipers clamp down instantly when the truck hits the brakes.

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