Can Trailer Hub and Drum # 8-257-5UC3-EZ be Used with 14 Inch Wheels on a 2K Flexride Torsion Axle

Question:

Can 14inch trailer wheels and tires be used safely with this hub/drum, part # 8-257-5UC3-EZ? Your product description says this hub/drum is for 10, 12inch and 13inch wheels. Is there a reason not to use 14inch wheels/tires with this hub/drum? If not is there another hub/drum for electric brakes that can be used with 14inch trailer wheels/tires on 2,000 lb.axles that use L44649 bearings? Preferably 5 on 4.5 hub/drums. Im looking for hubs/drums for 7inch electric brakes to use with a 2,000 lb. Flexiride torsion axle.

asked by: Steve

Expert Reply:

You can use hub and drum assembly # 8-257-5UC3-EZ with a 14 inch wheel. However since there will be more force with the larger wheel when it is spinning you will not get the optimum braking performance. All the hubs that have the 5 on 4-1/2 bolt pattern and fit 2,000 pound axles will all say 10 to 13 inch wheels but you can use a 14 inch. Just be aware that the braking performance will not be ideal.

The brakes that are compatible with this hub and drum are # 23-47 for the left side and # 23-48 for the right side.

expert reply by: Michael H

Steve

11/27/2012

Michael, Thank you for your helpful reply.The trailer this is planned to be used for is a 10 tear camping trailer. Empty it will weigh about 1,200 lbs. When loaded up with camping gear, a cooler, food, water, etc. it may weigh about 1,500 lbs. My home state, California, requires brakes for 1,500 lb.and heavier trailers. It will not be used to brake a 2,000 lb.trailer. So if used with 14 wheelstires there should be a margin of safety. I feel the ability to add electric brakes to a 2K Flexiride axle, whether required by law or not, is a desirable safety feature for pulling a trailer in heavy traffic or down mountain roads.

Patrick B.

11/29/2012

The 14 inch wheels should work fine at that load, just be extra thorough when setting up the brake assembly initially. You want to make sure the assembly is tightened up so that there is a light, even drag as you rotate the wheel by hand.