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What Is a Hydraulic Brake Kit?
A hydraulic brake kit is a matched set of braking components designed to work together on a trailer. By bundling the calipers, discs and hubs, hydraulic lines and the chosen actuation method, the kit ensures the system delivers the intended stopping performance with fewer compatibility risks and faster installation.
What’s Included in a Brake Kit?
Each kit is assembled from components selected to match capacity and fitment. A typical package includes hydraulic calipers, brake discs and hub assemblies, rigid lines and flexible hoses, and either a surge coupling with an integrated master cylinder or an electric over hydraulic actuator. Choosing a pre-configured kit simplifies sourcing and helps ensure that threads, fittings, clearances and capacities align correctly.
At Treadway we also offer braked trailer kits that add other key components needed to build a trailer like: wheels, suspension and lighting.
2500 kg vs 3500 kg Hydraulic Brake Kits
Brake kits are specified by the gross vehicle mass they are intended to control. For trailers up to 2500 kg GVM, a surge override kit is both practical and compliant when configured correctly. For trailers between 2500 kg and 3500 kg GVM, New Zealand requirements call for electric control and a compliant breakaway system, which is provided by an electric over hydraulic kit. Selecting the correct rating protects stopping performance and simplifies WOF or COF compliance.
Compare our ready-to-fit 2500 kg hydraulic brake kits and our 3500 kg electric over hydraulic kits to choose the right solution for your trailer.
Surge Override vs Electric Over Hydraulic Kits
Surge kits generate hydraulic pressure mechanically inside the coupling when the tow vehicle decelerates. This self-contained approach is valued for simplicity and quick installation on lighter trailers. Electric over hydraulic kits pair a tow-vehicle controller with a trailer-mounted hydraulic actuator to create adjustable, consistent pressure that suits heavier loads and varied terrain. Above 2500 kg GVM an electric control with breakaway is required, making EOH the appropriate choice for those weights.
Explore our surge override brake kits for sub-2500 kg builds or our electric over hydraulic kits for higher weight ratings.
Benefits of Buying a Complete Brake Kit
Bundling components into a single kit reduces guesswork and avoids mismatched parts. A kit shortens installation time, lowers the chance of leaks caused by incompatible fittings, and provides confidence that disc size, caliper clamp force, hub specifications and actuation method are correctly aligned. For manufacturers and repairers, kits also streamline quoting and after-sales support.
Where to Buy Hydraulic Brake Kits in NZ
Treadway supplies complete hydraulic brake trailer kits engineered for New Zealand conditions, along with hydraulic disc brake sets, surge couplings, electric over hydraulic actuators, hoses, calipers, and hydraulic brake spare parts. If you need help matching a kit to your axle rating, disc size and towing environment, contact our team for expert guidance.
Hydraulic Brake Kits – FAQs
Do I need a 3500 kg kit for my trailer?
If the certified GVM of your trailer exceeds 2500 kg, you should choose an electric over hydraulic kit rated to 3500 kg and include a compliant breakaway system to meet New Zealand requirements and ensure adequate braking performance.
Are Treadway brake kits compatible with other brands?
Yes. Treadway components are selected for broad interchangeability so manufacturers and repairers can upgrade or replace parts without redesigning their system. Calipers, actuators, couplings and hoses are supplied with fittings that align with common industry standards.
What is included in a hydraulic trailer brake kit?
A typical kit contains matched calipers, brake discs and hubs, rigid lines and flexible hoses, and either a surge coupling or an electric over hydraulic actuator. The components are selected to work together, saving time and reducing compatibility risks during installation.
Can I upgrade from a surge kit to an electric over hydraulic kit later?
Yes. Many systems share compatible hubs, discs and calipers. You can retrofit an electric actuator and in-cab controller to move from surge to electric over hydraulic when your trailer specification or towing requirements change.