Who will help me with my 77 Overlander brakes?

[Mr paul]

I just purchased a 1977 overlander that had been sitting for some time. I know it needs work and i am prepared to do whatever it takes. However this model features hydraulic disc brakes. Right in the middle of the front of my trailer site a covered contraption that controls the brakes. What should i do? Get them operating as is or change to a brake actuator which is something that i know nothing sbout. I think that i like the idea of disc brakes buti would like to hear from domeone with experience in this matter. Thank you

[CRH]

I would put a set of electric drums on.

[wkerfoot]

In my opinion, reverting to drum brakes would be a step backwards in technology. I would replace the existing actuator with an new electric over hydraulic one and replace the existing disc brakes either Dexter or Kodiak disc brakes. It will be expensive but you will have much better brakes.

I have a Dexter actuator and Kodiak disc brakes on both of my trailers.

Bill

[Belegedhel]

You should start out by evaluating the condition of your axles. If they are the originals, then they are 40 years old now, which is about 20 yrs past the useful lifespan of the rubber torsion elements. IF you replace the axles, then you can order the new ones fully assembled with whatever brakes you want. For shear simplicity, standardization, and lowest cost, electric brakes would be the answer.

good luck!

[worden]

You will not likely get the disk brakes working "as is". My 77 Sovereign had the hydraulic brakes and the actuator required a vacuum connection to the TV. You would not be able to connect to any modern vehicle unless you have a vacuum pump on board. And as others have said the axles are probably shot. In addition the calipers may be frozen up. I elected to purchase new axles and a Kodiak disk brake kit with the electric/hydraulic actuator.

[alantbird]

Had em on my 77 international.
Worked great with an old techumsa controller.
Had to plumb a vac line connection to my tv bumper and tie into engine vacuum.
My calipers went on way to fla from az.
Had them removed by an as dealer in fla who sent them to the only guy in the states in sandiago If I recall.
1200.00 later worked like a charm till I sold it.
That was 20 years ago and I’ll assume the brake guy is out no gone?

No regrets

That’s the charm of the vintage ones in my mind to preserve the orig amazing inventions

[TouringDan]

Mr Paul

Congratulations on your 77 Overlander and welcome to AirForums.

I have some experience with disc brakes. I have installed new axles on my 66 Tradewind and am in the process of installing disc brakes. I have installed the discs and calipers, but still need to install the brake lines, the hydraulic pump and bleed the system and make sure it works. I am installing disc brakes because I don’t like drum brakes and want to install the best braking system possible and that means disc brakes, not drum brakes.

Now having said all that I recommend that you install new axles with drum brakes. The reason for that is that there are very few places in the country that have the capability and experience to do a professional job of installing disc brakes in your trailer (in my opinion). By installing new axles with drum brakes you will at least have the same brakes that come on new Airstreams that as we know cost $$$. You should be able to find a reputable axle or rv tech that can do this for you. After this is completed you will then be able to decide if you want to spend the extra money and make the effort to locate and take your Overlander to a shop to make the changeover from drum brakes to disc brakes.

Safe travels, Dan