How Do I Know What Brakes to Add to My Dual Axle Trailer?

Question:

Hi, I have a dual axle trailer. I dont know the brand name of trailer or axle. Where would I find brand name info? I would like to put brakes on it. How can I tell if they will fit? Thanks

asked by: Rod

Expert Reply:

Often the manufacturer, model number and other pertinent information can be found on a plate or sticker on the frame. It is usually on or near the tongue of the trailer on the driver's side. Sometimes this will be on the tag, but other times the VIN number may be stamped into the frame itself in various locations, even at times underneath. The VIN is unique to each trailer.

One of the easiest ways for us to determine what you need is to get the numbers on your bearings. This will require removing the wheel and the hub off one of your axles. The bearing numbers are printed on the outside of the inner ring of the bearing. This is a messy job, but will give me the information to help you without needing to measure.

If you cannot find this information, we can often times figure out axle capacities, and what brake assemblies you need based on measuring the axle diameter, the spindles, and even the bearings. We can help you with electric or hydraulic brakes, so if you let me know what route you'd like to go, I'd be happy to help. I've included an image to help you with measurements so we can get you set up with trailer brakes. I recommend using a caliper like # PTW80157 to take these measurements.

If you measure the diameter of the axle, we can narrow down the capacity based on industry standard sizes, but this isn't as specific as would be ideal. Measuring the spindles, would require removing the hub of one side of one axle, but will give me the best information because multiple measurements can take place. You can measure the spindles in 3 places represented in the attached diagram. The measurements are for the bearing seal, the inner bearing, and the outer bearing. These measurements can ensure that I recommend the right bearings, brake assembly, and hubs for your axle.

If you cannot get to the axle spindle, measuring the inner diameter of the bearings will give me the next best information. In addition to that, if you can give me the bolt pattern of your wheels, I can give you every piece you need to convert your trailer to a trailer with electric or hydraulic brakes.

expert reply by: Jason S