Replacing 10" Brakes On 3500lb Dexter Axles w/ 5-on-5" Bolt Pattern

Question:

I have a 2018 BigTex 18ft trailer with two 3500 lb. Dexter axles, Mod 35D with 5 on 5 bolt pattern. It has 10 brakes on the rear axle that have been weak since purchasing the trailer. Im looking to add brakes to the front axle. Could I get a list of parts needed to accomplish this? Thanks

asked by: Jim G

Helpful Expert Reply:

It's not too difficult to add electric brakes to the front axle of your 2018 BigTex. Assuming you've already got the correct trailer wiring harness for your 2010 Dodge Ram as well as an electronic brake controller with a breakaway to control the rear axle's existing brakes, all you would need to add brakes to front axle would be a hub and drum assembly that fits your axle and bolt pattern as well as adding the electric drum brakes themselves.

Our brakes # AKEBRK-35-SA will fit your axle, and our hub and drum assembly # AKHD-550-35-K is most likely what you need to work with them, and pair well with both your existing axles and wheels. You can also purchase an additional pair of these to replace your rear brakes at some point as well. Tod make sure the hub and drum assemblies fit check your bearings first. You should have # L68149 for the inner and # L44649 for the outer.

I also recommend that you check your axles to see if there are mounting flanges present for you to use when you install the brakes. If there aren't any already there, then you're going to need a product like the Redline Brake Mounting Flange # 4-35, one for each end of the axle.

I've linked some helpful videos and article that explains this in more detail.