Can Brakes be Added to a Triton GU-10 Trailer with 18.5x8.50-8 Tires and Wheels

Question:

I own a triton gu-10 trailer and would like to add brakes .it has 18.5x8.50-8 wheel on currently. is this a possibility for a brake setup or what would need to be done to run brakes thankyou

asked by: David

Expert Reply:

It is possible to add brakes to your trailer but there are a few things to consider. First and foremost the axle will need to have brake mounting flanges. For an example of an axle that has brake mounting flanges take a look at # T3584F-EZ-8974 and the picture I have included.

If the trailer axle does not have the flanges then they will have to be welded on. This is a precision job and requires installation by someone with experience with the installation and the proper jig to keep the flange in the exact right stop. Otherwise the trailer will have suspension, tracking, and tire wear problems until the issue is rectified.

Next, you will likely need new hub and drum assemblies and wheels and tires. None of the brakes or hub and drum assemblies are compatible with 8 inch wheels. To determine if there hub and drum assemblies that will fit I will need to know the inner and outer bearing numbers stamped into the sides of the bearings.

Once I determine if there are hub and drum assemblies I can determine the compatible wheels and tires.

Electric drum brakes will be the easiest to add so you will also need a 7-Way connector on the trailer, a 7-Way on the vehicle, and a brake controller on the vehicle. For the vehicle I will need to know if it has a trailer connector now and, if so, what kind. And I will need to know the year, make, and model of the tow vehicle.

I have included a link to our help article on parts needed to add electric drum brakes to a trailer that should also be helpful

expert reply by: Michael H