Selecting Axles, Hubs and Brakes for Fabricated Trailer

Question:

I have some older mobile home axels or rather a friend has a lots of em. I am a welder, and a good one who wants to build hot shot trailer. I want 8 hole to run 16inch tires and wheels, I assume bearings on existing axels are fine, can I find 8 hole hub, with brakes, electric to slide on original trailer axex bearing and spindle.

asked by: Kevin M

Expert Reply:

Mobile home axles are intended for a single use (to transport the home to its permanent location) but they are not suitable for use in construction of a trailer. You will want to use a new trailer axle or axles for construction of your trailer.

The linked page will show you all trailer axles as well as axle-less suspension systems from Timbren. Some of these kits include compatible hubs and/or drum brakes, such as the 3500-lb axle kit # e43SR that includes electric brakes and 5 on 4-1/2 hubs.

If you purchase an axle locally you'll want to be sure to note the bearing set used on its spindles. Your hubs must use the same bearings in order for them to fit properly on the spindles. I also linked our page for 8-on-6-1/2 bolt pattern hubs. Your electric brakes must use the same brake flange bolt pattern as what is on your chosen axle. Electric drum brake assemblies are also linked for you.

expert reply by: Adam R