Can Brakes be Added to 3,500 Pound Dexter Trailer Axle

Question:

can i install brake hubs to my existing axle. dexter axle serial no. 131103084 capacity 3500 lbs. dexter axel 133103084 Does not have four bolt plate to receive hub and drum. Can i weld bolt plate to existing axil and then puchase hubs and drums from etrailer...

asked by: David C

Expert Reply:

Yes, brakes can be added to your trailer and I've linked an article to help with the parts you'll need.

The first thing you'll need is the brake mounting flanges welded to the axle, like you mentioned. The correct flange is # 4-35 however these need to be welded by a qualified welder because the mounting flange must be welded square and concentric. This is generally done using a jig at a trailer shop.

I've linked our selection of hub and drum assemblies for 3,500 pound axles. You'll need to find your bearing numbers or measurements to determine which you need. You'll also want to select hubs with the correct bolt pattern. I've included a diagram to help you find your bearing numbers and an article on bolt pattern.

You're going to need to wire the trailer to power the brakes. This will require a 7-way trailer connector, like # HS381-9000. This includes a junction box with will make it easier to wire up. Then use 10 gauge wire # 10-1-1, which is sold by the foot, to run the wire from the 7-way to the trailer's brakes.

The trailer will require a breakaway kit. The Hopkins Engager # 20099 is our most popular kit. The breakaway kit engages the trailer's brakes in the event the trailer is separated from your tow vehicle.

In order to control the trailer's brakes you must have an electric brake controller in your tow vehicle. If you don't already have one I suggest the Prodigy P2 # 90885 because of how reliable and easy to use it is. Its one of our top brake controllers. Your vehicle may have a connector under the dash for a custom harness to make the install easier.

And finally you'll need brakes. I suggest the # AKEBRK-35-SA brake kit that includes both brake assemblies. These are self-adjusting so they'll need to be manually adjusted once when they're installed and never again.

I've linked some videos on the products I've recommended for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Charles S

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Mark

3/14/2024

Hi Charles, I am wondering how would the option of adding hydraulic brakes look like with my Dexter torsion axle ( DEXTER PART # 5459008- #10 TORFLEX). This axle is on a covered trailer and I am in a need of brakes. Electric brakes are not an option. What can you suggest. Your help is much appreciated. Mark

Bud M.

3/14/2024

@Mark I know I'm not Charles but I hope I can help. The #10 torflex commonly had the #84 spindle which will use a Inner Bearing # L68149, Outer Bearing # L44649 and Grease Seal # 58846. If you can confirm these are the same as what you have then you can look at one of the following options for hydraulic brakes. Hydraulic Drum Hydraulic Trailer Brake Kit # AKFBBRK-35 Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K Qty 2 Hydraulic Disc Disc Brake Kit # K2R35DKG If you can let me know if you prefer to have a surge actuator or electric over hydraulic and which brake type you wish to go with I can confirm the brake lines and other parts you will need.