Electric Brake Assemblies for Brake Flanges on 1971 Horse Trailer

Question:

I have a 1971 Miley 2 horse trailer with surge brakes. I would like to convert to electric brakes but it appears the brake flange is a 6-bolt, although it is hard to tell. There are 6 holes but only 5 bolts. Do you carry 6-bolt flange electric brake kits? Have you heard of a 6-bolt flange or is the sixth hole not a mounting hole? Thanks.

asked by: Dean S

Expert Reply:

Electric trailer brakes should be selected based on your axle's weight capacity, which should be listed on a plate or sticker on the axle itself, and of course based on the brake flange mounting pattern. The electric brakes we offer can have 4-bolt, 5-bolt, or 7-bolt mounting patterns.

Some have multiple bolt hole patterns, both 4- and 5-bolt such as the Hayes/Alko # 185100, or both 5- and 7-bolt, such as Dexter # 23-451.

We do not offer brakes with a 6-bolt pattern, but that does not mean your 1971 trailer does not have such a mounting scheme. Trailers as old as yours may have parts that are no longer manufactured. It might be worth your time to pull one hub and brake assembly to make absolutely sure what it is that you have. If you'd care to submit a photo that would help us too.

You may find it easier to replace your axle with a new one that has a common brake flange set up.
I included a link to our page for replacement axles with electric brakes which are available in up to a 3500-lb capacity. Another option is to have a qualified professional welder install new brake flanges on your axles. This is a precision process that must be done perfectly by a trained welder with the correct equipment.

expert reply by: Adam R