Parts Needed To Add Electric Brakes To Old All State Sears Utility Trailer

Question:

I am pricing parts to put trailer brakes on a old All State utility trailer. The trailer was marketed by Sears back in the day. The inner bearing diameter on the current axle is 1.25inch and the outer bearing diameter is 0.75 inches. These dimensions were taken for the specs for the bearings that came off the trailer. There is currently no brake mounting plates on the axle. I estimate the trailer has a 1500 to 2000 lb. axle based on axle diameter. Will I be able to find the bearings to mount the hubs are will I have to purchase a new axle?

asked by: Bob W

Expert Reply:

I did some research and it looks like your Sears utility trailer has a maximum load capacity of 2,000-lbs. Most trailers this size have Item # L44643 for their inner and outer bearing, have a 4 or 5 bolt pattern, and use 7 inch brakes. Based on this information, I can make some recommendations. If what I have found is not correct just let me know and I can find the correct parts you need.

You will need to either replace your axle or purchase brake mounting flanges like Item # 4-34 that can be welded to your axle by a qualified welder.

You will need hub-and-drum assemblies that match your trailer's bearings. Based on bearing size Item # L44643, you will need Trailer Hub-and-Drum Assembly Item # AKHD-545-2-1K. This hub-and-drum is compatible with most standard axles and has a 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern

After choosing a hub-and-drum assembly, you will need to pick a brake assembly that is compatible with the brake mounting flange and with the drum's diameter and depth. I recommend Electric Trailer Brake Kit Item # AKEBRK-2 because it fits a 7 inch hub-and-drum assembly like Item # AKHD-545-2-1K.

If you do not have a 7-Way connector on your trailer then you will need to replace your 4-Way with a 7-Way. Trailer Wiring 7-Way Upgrade Kit Item # HS381-9000 has most of the components. You will also need to run wire to your brakes which can be done with Item # 10-2-1.

You may already have this but you will also need a 7-Way connector running from your vehicle to the trailer. If you do, send me the year, make, and model of your vehicle and I will recommend the best option.

You will also need a brake controller. I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Brake Controller Item # 90195. The P3 is a proportional controller which gives you greater control, is very customizable, and is pretty easy to install and use.

Finally, you will need a trailer breakaway kit. I recommend the Tekonsha Trailer Breakaway Kit Item # 50-85-313. It has a built-in charger, includes a 12-Volt rechargeable battery, and has a push-button test feature.

As you add your electric brakes, make sure to get the right components for your needs and your trailer. Again, I am glad to make correct recommendations if you send me more details about your trailer.

More information and videos attached.