stopping distance, disk vs drum

blofgren wrote:
I have had both and I can assure you that discs are MUCH better than drums. Our current trailer with discs is 4,500 lbs heavier than our last trailer with 12" drums and the difference is amazing. Much quicker activation, stronger, and smoother than the drums. I would not want to go back to a trailer with drums.

X2, 10 fold!!!
No question disc are better in every area. Anyone who has had both knows without a doubt!
There area a couple of articles with real world test that I reviewed before making the switch on my former Carriage. I ordered the 2014 fiver with Dexter disc from the factory. Stopping is ALWAYS predictable - hot brakes, wet brakes or whatever.

Here is s good link from a guy who actually performed tests:http://www.mrtrailer.com/kodiak_hydraulic_disc_brakes.htm

direct link


not quite what you asked for but interesting ,a comparison between ABS and not on a disk setup
Direct link may also have a drum/disk comparo,I didn't look too long.

I have had both and I can assure you that discs are MUCH better than drums. Our current trailer with discs is 4,500 lbs heavier than our last trailer with 12" drums and the difference is amazing. Much quicker activation, stronger, and smoother than the drums. I would not want to go back to a trailer with drums.

If you can lock up your brakes then the difference in distance between drum and disk is going to be minimal. However IMO, not many drum brakes will lock the brakes, especially a large heavy trailer.

Due to their design trailer brakes are not the best unless they are set up perfectly and work exactly as designed, which doesn't appear to be the norm. Poor wiring, weak magnets, worn drums, cheap brake shoes, all of these will contribute to mediocre braking.

As far as disc brakes overall good drum brakes will stop you as quickly as disc brakes...the first time. When drum brakes get hot, which they will do much faster than disc brakes, they fade pretty badly. Same thing when they get wet. Also ABS is going to work much better with disc brakes over drums.

Doubt you will find such an animal, however, there is a reason EVERY new vehicle has disk brakes.

Jim