Can Brakes be Added to Second Axle in Tandem Axle Setup
Question:
I purchased a trailer last year and a inspection done at a RV store. My trailer has only 1 axle with breaks but Pennsylvania requires both axles to have it. Can I add breaks to the other axle or do I have to purchase a new axle. Thanks
asked by: Glenn C
Expert Reply:
You can definitely add brakes to an axle without purchasing another one. The easiest thing is if your axle already has a brake mounting flange installed on it. If your axle doesn't then you can have one welded on, but we typically recommend replacing the axle in this case just because you can have the peace of mind that the flange was done professionally.
I am attaching a link to some helpful articles on adding different types of brakes to an axle that you can check out. I am also attaching a photo showing what a brake mounting flange looks like. If you let me know what type of brakes you currently have, if your axle has a brake mounting flange, and what your axle weight rating is I can help you figure out what exact parts you'll need to accomplish this.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Trailer Axle with Idler Hubs - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Axles
- Leaf Spring Suspension
- Standard Spindles
- Idler Hubs
- 3500 lbs
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- 74 Inch Long
- 89 Inch Long
- No Drop or Lift
- Dexter
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3,500 lbs
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes - Easy Grease - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Shop: Dexter Trailer Axle with Idler Hubs - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Q&A: Replacement Trailer Hub and Brake Assemblies for AL-KO 8500 Hub/Drum
- Shop: Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 3.5K Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 5 - Pre-Greased
- Q&A: What Bolt Pattern Does a 15 Inch Trailer Wheel Have
- Video: etrailer Electric Trailer Brake Kit Review and Installation
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Trailer
- Video: Pollak Wiring - Trailer Connectors - PK12702 Review
- Video: Hopkins Wiring - Trailer Connectors - HM48510 Review
- Shop: Trailer Wiring Junction Box - 7 Color Coded Terminals - ABS
- Shop: Hopkins Endurance Metal Trailer Connector - 7-Pole RV Style - Trailer End
- Shop: Curt 7-Way RV-Style Trailer Connector - Trailer End
- Search Results: 7 blade trailer plug
- Search Results: dexter 3500
- Article: Troubleshooting Brake Controller Installations
- Article: Testing Trailer Brake Magnets for Proper Function
- Q&A: How to Choose New Axle For Standard Hub
- Video: Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
- Video: etrailer Trailer Hub And Drum Assembly Installation
- Video: etrailer Easy Grease Spindles Trailer Axle Beam Installation
- Search Results: 5000 lb axle with brakes
- Q&A: Proper Position of Equalizer and Shackles on Trailer Suspension
- Q&A: Trailer Brakes Not Working Properly After Replacing Brakes and Drum
- Q&A: Charging a Trailer Breakaway System Battery Using the 12 Volt Circuit on a 7-Way Connector
- Search Results: boat trailer wiring harness
- Q&A: When Do Brakes Need to be Added to Both Axles of Tandem Axle Trailer
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Fifth Wheel Hitch