Replacing Bearings and Adding Electric Brakes to Dexter 3,500 Pound Axle  

Question:

Expert Reply:

I reached out to Dexter's #15 plant (thus the P-15 on your axle) and they were able to confirm the 3,500 pound rating on your particular axle based on the serial number you provided. This means the correct replacement bearings are # L68149 for the inner bearing and # L44649 for the outer bearing.

We also have the complete 3,500 pound axle Bearing Kit # BK2-100, which includes these bearings along with the 10-19 grease seal, cotter pin, and tang washer (if you have EZ-Lube spindles).

If you already have hub and drum assemblies then you can simply add the Dexter Electric Brake # 23-27 for the Right Hand and # 23-26 for the Left Hand. Also make sure that the axle is equipped with brake mounting flanges and that they share the same 4 bolt pattern as these assemblies (bolts spaces apart by 2-7/8" on center). I wasn't able to verify if your axles have these.

If you just have idler hubs then you will need to replace them with the etrailer Hub and Drum # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K. This assembly has a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern so you will want to make sure this matches your existing hubs or wheels. I have attached a great article on measuring your bolt pattern if you aren't sure.

To add electric brakes to a trailer that''s never had them you will also need to add wiring and likely a new 7-Way connector and junction box. I have attached an article that goes into a lot of detail regarding each of the components you will need to accomplish this.

As long as your Dexter axle looks to still be in good condition and you haven't noticed any change in the ride quality then there's no particular reason you need to replace it.

expert reply by: Chris R

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