Determining the Correct Hub Drum and Brake Assembly for an 18ft Performance Trailer  

Question:

Expert Reply:

To order a complete trailer brake setup for your Performance 18 trailer, you will need to find out a couple of things about the trailer first. You have 3500 pound axles, but you will need to know the bolt circle pattern for the trailer wheels, and you will need to know the bearing part numbers, both inner and outer, to find the proper hub and drum for your trailer.

If you want brakes on one axle, you will need 2 hub drums and if you have two axles and want brakes on both axles you will need 4 hub drums. Next, you will need to measure the seal or provide the part number of the grease/oil seal.

You also need to determine whether there is a mounting flange attached to the axle, and the bolt hole pattern for the flange if present. If a mounting flange is not present, you will have to order one and have it welded in place. To order a trailer brake mounting flange, you will need the diameter of the spindle at the point where the flange mounts. Typically the 3,500 pound axle will use a 2-3/8 inch diameter flange, with a 2-7/8 inch on center bolt pattern.

With these measurements, we can determine the correct hub and drum assembly for your axles and then order the correct size brake assembly for your hub and drum.

You can view some additional information on installing trailer brakes and determining the correct hub parts at the following links, as well as the brake mounting flanges, electric brake assemblies, and hub drums we offer.