Parts Needed to Add Brakes to a Tandem 3,500 lb Axle Trailer to Tow with a 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Question:

I have a 1998 Tow Master, Inc. dual axle boat trailer. My state DMV has told me I need to add brakes to this trailer to get a license for it. The model# is 26-28T GVWR is 7,000 lbs Tire size is 14 Net carrying cap. is 5,880 lbs The wheel hub is a 5 bolt pattern with a center to center distance of 4 1/4 There is a 4 hole hub mount behind the wheel with a center to center distance of 3. I have a 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee 6 cyl. as the tow vehicle. Would you please let me know all the components that I will need to put electric brakes on my trailer? Im assuming that electric brakes are the way to go but will let your expertise decide that for me.

asked by: Rudy E

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you currently have a wheel hub that has a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern (taken from the far end of one bolt to the center of one directly across from it) and that you already have a brake mounting flange on two 3,500 lb axles.

If this is the case then I recommend using the electric brake kit # AKEBRK-35-SA along with the Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly # AKHD-545-35-K. Electric brakes are the easiest to install and maintain so these will work out great for you. Just make sure that your current hubs have a L68149 inner bearing, L44649 outer bearing, and a grease seals that has a 1.719" inner diameter and the hub and drum assembly will fit.

To complete the wiring on your trailer I recommend installing a 7-Way with a junction box like part # e99011. This gives you a nice, clean way to make all of your wiring connections. You will need 10 Gauge Wire # 10-1-1 to run from the box to your brakes and install a breakaway kit like part # 20099 as well.

That is all you need for your trailer, but you will also need to install a brake controller on your 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee if you don't already have one. I am guessing that you already have a 4-Way connector but if you don't you need part # 118349 if you don't have the factory tow package but part # C55260 if you do.

You will also need the Universal Wiring Kit # ETBC7 if you don't have the factory tow package but the extra wiring kit # 5506 to complete your wiring if you do have the tow package. After this wiring is installed you will be able to install a brake controller. I highly recommend the Prodigy P2 # 90885. It has received great reviews from our customers and will activate the brakes on your trailer at the same time and with the same intensity as the brakes on your Grand Cherokee.

I am attaching some videos and articles that you can reference for the installation as well. Please note that electricity and water don't mix well together so you will need to disconnect the 7-Way of your trailer from your Jeep before backing your trailer into the water.