Converting a 2021 Montana 3120RL to Disc Brakes

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Original Member Title: Converting a 2021 3120RL to Disc Brakes - Questions
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A member asked whether a mechanically skilled DIYer without brake experience could convert a 2021 Montana 3120RL from drum to disc brakes, and whether axle or suspension upgrades should be considered at the same time. Members generally said the brake conversion is doable for someone with good mechanical skills, with the most time-consuming part being bending, flaring, and installing the hydraulic lines, and suggested practicing with borrowed brake line tools before working on the actual...
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WhatExit?

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Mar 7, 2021
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Mesa, AZ
I'd like to convert to disc brakes on my 2021 Montana 3120RL. From my limited research it appears that converting from drum brakes to disc brakes is something I can do (mechanically skilled, DIYer, willing to tackle projects) but is it something people can tackle without having brake experience?

I see a number of links to doing it yourself but we all know there are plenty of Doing It Wrong videos on YouTube, etc.

If I do go ahead and do it what should I watch out for?

What else should I look at doing?

I've seen axle upgrades and suspension upgrades. What are your thoughts on doing one or both of these - is one or both worth the investment?
 
The hardest part of the install is bending and installing the hydraulic lines - very time consuming. The remainder is easier and not that high tech if you have decent mech skills.
 
Agree with Zack. You can borrow hydraulic line tools from Auto Zone. Get them and practice a few flares and bends before tackling the real stuff. You can do it.
 
I had the MorRyde IS with the disk brakes installed in my 2022 montana 3231CK last April. Trailered it out to Colorado and back to Jersey. No more leaf springs breaking or pins seizing , very little maintains. It was 10,000 installed. Worth every penny. by the time you install and buy the disc brakes for your trailer it’s probably half the price of just putting the more ride IS independence suspension on.
 
If your tow vehicle has a factory brake controller, make sure it supports electric over hydraulic brake systems. My 2014 Chevy Silverado's controller does not. I would either have to install a third-party controller in the truck, or have faith in a third-party adapter to convert the signal between my controller and the actuator. Since my RVing days are somewhat numbered, I kept the drum brakes. Didn't want to add another "knee-banger" under the dash in the truck.
 
I'd like to convert to disc brakes on my 2021 Montana 3120RL. From my limited research it appears that converting from drum brakes to disc brakes is something I can do (mechanically skilled, DIYer, willing to tackle projects) but is it something people can tackle without having brake experience?

I see a number of links to doing it yourself but we all know there are plenty of Doing It Wrong videos on YouTube, etc.

If I do go ahead and do it what should I watch out for?

What else should I look at doing?

I've seen axle upgrades and suspension upgrades. What are your thoughts on doing one or both of these - is one or both worth the investment?
Keystone should be able to assist you with this conversion because the disc brake option is already engineered and included in the Montana Legacy 3121 RL which we own. Hope this helps.
 
I had the MorRyde IS with the disk brakes installed in my 2022 montana 3231CK last April. Trailered it out to Colorado and back to Jersey. No more leaf springs breaking or pins seizing , very little maintains. It was 10,000 installed. Worth every penny. by the time you install and buy the disc brakes for your trailer it’s probably half the price of just putting the more ride IS independence suspension on.
Did you have it done in Indiana? Is that the only place? I see from your post you're in NJ.. I'm in NY...
 
Yes, we had it done in Indiana. On our way out to Colorado to camp work for six months one more thing. I suggest if you get that IS make sure you plan on keeping the trailer for a long time. PS see if your truck is equipped with HOE, that means hydraulic over electric brake my 2022 Dodge ram had it in the truck.
 
Keystone should be able to assist you with this conversion because the disc brake option is already engineered and included in the Montana Legacy 3121 RL which we own. Hope this helps.


Thank you. I reached out to Keystone and here's their response:

Good afternoon,

Thank you for contacting Keystone regarding your interest in converting your unit from drum brakes to disc brakes.

Currently, Keystone is unable to provide recommendations or guidance regarding aftermarket parts or modifications. Because these types of upgrades can vary based on individual unit specifications and component compatibility, we recommend consulting with your local authorized dealer or a qualified service center for assistance.

They will be best equipped to evaluate your unit and advise on appropriate options for your specific setup.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any additional questions.
 
Yes, we had it done in Indiana. On our way out to Colorado to camp work for six months one more thing. I suggest if you get that IS make sure you plan on keeping the trailer for a long time. PS see if your truck is equipped with HOE, that means hydraulic over electric brake my 2022 Dodge ram had it in the truck.


Thank you. I've confirmed...

The 2021 Ford Super Duty supports electric-over-hydraulic (EOH) trailer brakes via its integrated trailer brake controller (ITBC), which allows for precise, high-pressure braking compared to surge systems. Owners must configure the brake type in the trailer settings menu (selecting "Electric Over Hydraulic") for optimal performance.
 

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