What is Needed to Add Electric Brakes to 2014 Cargo Trailer?

Question:

There is nothing on the axle except the 4 bolt flange. I want to add complete electric brakes. The wheel studs are 5 on 4.5 inch centrr to center.

asked by: Geoffrey M

Expert Reply:

There certainly are brakes you can add; if you let me know the type of hub you have (idler or drum) and what type of brakes you are looking to add, disc, drum or electric, I would be happy to try and help you find the right brake set up.

expert reply by: Kyle S

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Geoffrey

2/23/2018

There is nothing on the axle except the 4 bolt flange. I want to add complete electric brakes. The wheel studs are 5 on 4.5 inch centrr to center.

Kyle S.

2/23/2018

There are a number of parts you will need to add electric brakes to your trailer. Since you have a 3,500 lb axle and wheel studs that are 5 on 4-1/2 there is enough information to get you started. The first thing you need is a hub and drum assembly and # AKHD-545-35-K will work with 3,500 lb axles that have # 84 spindles. It uses inner bearing # L68149, which has a 1.378" inner diameter, and outer bearing # L44649, which has a 1.063" inner diameter; this assembly also uses grease seal # 58846 which has an inner diameter of 1.719". You need to use a digital caliper such as # 301-17068 to measure your spindle where the bearings and seal ride (please see accompanying photo) in order to determine if this is the correct hub and drum assembly for you. For electric brakes I recommend using the Electric Trailer Brake Kit # AKEBRK-35-SA, which are rated for 3,500 lb axles and are self-adjusting for convenience. You need the Mounting Hardware for 10" Brake Assemblies # BRKH10B to install these. The Hopkins Engager Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit # 20099 is also needed and will activate your trailer's electric brakes should your trailer disconnect from your tow vehicle. As you likely also know you will need to have the proper wiring on your trailer so the brakes will work properly. I've added a link to a help article on what you need to add electric drum brakes which you can refer to for this wiring. I have also added links to video reviews of these products for you to take a look at.