How to Determine Replacement Axle to Add Electric Brakes to Boat Trailer

Question:

There isn't by chance to have a spindle turned to accept the smaller bearing is there? If so, that could save me buying a completely new axle (my axle has the spindles welded on top of the main rectangular steel axle itself, which lowers the entire trailer to the ground. the springs attach below the axle as well... Also, If I do end up replacing the entire axle, will I need to get the new axle alligned? I see there is a decent amount of bend in the axles you have in the center to offset the load, but would not want to hinder tire wear becasue of the camber amount...

asked by: Steve V

Expert Reply:

The 1-3/8" measurement you said you had for the bearings on your boat trailer would be a # L68149 bearing, and there are no hub assemblies we carry which use both of those. Like you mentioned, the best option really would be to replace your axle which would allow you to easily add a hub and drum assembly with electric brakes.

In order to choose the correct replacement axle for your trailer you will need to know the dimensions of your current axle's hub face to hub face and spring center to spring center as in the diagram I have added; the other thing you need to know is the weight capacity of the axle you need, which should match or exceed the GVWR of your trailer.

For example the Dexter Trailer Axle with Electric Brakes # 35545E-ST-89 has a 3,500 lb capacity and measures 89 inches from hub face to hub face and 74 inches from spring center to spring center.

You do have another option, the Timbren Axle-Less Suspension System, which are simply bolted or welded so you do not have to worry about finding an axle that meets any specific measurements such as the Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System with Electric Brake Hubs # A35RS545E.

I've added a link to our selection of axles for you to check out, or if you get back to me with that information I'd be happy to try and find something that will work for you.

expert reply by: Kyle S

click to enlarge

Steve V.

5/15/2019

Kyle S.

5/15/2019

Good questions and you will not want to turn the spindle (grind it down) or modify it in any way as this would compromise the integrity of your suspension, so you will need to get a new axle. In regards to alignment, they do not need to be aligned like a traditional axle. To align a trailer axle you want the ends of the axle to measure the same distance to your trailer coupler. So once the axle is in place, measure from the ends to your trailer coupler and if it is the exact same measurement on both sides, the axle will be aligned.