Forum Discussion

Aka_the_breeze's avatar
Feb 27, 2014

Disc brakes

Hello gang ,

I have been contemplating taking a ride to Elkhart to see the sites.... While I am there I may get Mor/Ryde add the Disc Brake system... I already have the IS system on the vehicle.... My quoted cost is right around $3,000.00 .. I know it worth it , I want to hear the cons ( if any) .. If you get a flat and the tire shreds the hydraulic line , will the other 3 brakes still work , or will all the fluid drain and you lose all brakes ? Sorry for the newbie questions...
  • netjam wrote:
    Had Mor-ryde IS with discs, now have drum brakes. As far as I know, if you lose one line you have no brakes. I think Mor-ryde uses a Carlisle actuator which works OK. I had a different brand which was a constant hassle. IMO (but I am likely the minority) the change is not worth the $3000. Best of luck with whatever you do.


    This is the 1st negative comment about disc that I recall seeing on the forum.

    I will never go back to drum. Braking is much smoother and stronger with disc. I had a Newmar trailer with DEXTER disc and they are expensive to service and pads are their own and I had to pay $150 per axle for replacement pads. My Mobile Suites has the KODIAK so I am one of the few with actual experience with both manufactures and their use on heavy trailers.

    Mor-Ryde installs mostly KODIAK disc and the KODIAK design is much more user friendly. Servicing yourself is a breeze with the KODIAK and pads are GM so any parts store will sell you pads @ 35 per axle.
    I would not recommend the DEXTER as I had issues with pistons seizing after 3 years of use and that involved replacing caliper halves to repair. This is was another $500 in addition to high cost of pads.

    My feeling is the KODIAK is the best single upgrade that anyone can make to their trailer.

    Your other question about if I a break line gets ripped off by a exploding tire. Yes, the fluid will leak out and you will have no pressure to the other brakes. The quick fix in case that happens is to crimp the line and hold it crimped with vice grips. Then wrap with duct tape or a zip tie so it holds until proper repair can be made. Randu
  • I have the Carlisle actuator and whoever makes the discs. It is a pleasure to tow.
  • Disk brake is the best investment you can make .If somebody say the other way they don't know s....
  • be sure if you do the swap that they use Kodiak brakes. the other brand use preparatory high priced discs and Kodiak use off the shelf gm pads
  • Had Mor-ryde IS with discs, now have drum brakes. As far as I know, if you lose one line you have no brakes. I think Mor-ryde uses a Carlisle actuator which works OK. I had a different brand which was a constant hassle. IMO (but I am likely the minority) the change is not worth the $3000. Best of luck with whatever you do.