Recommended 3500lb Axle W/ Brake Flange To Replace 2200lb Torflex Axle W/O Brake Flange
Question:
I have a Featherlite 1693 12 trailer with a 2200# Dexter Torflex axle. I would like to add electric brakes to this trailer. This axle doesnt have the spindle plate for brakes. Since I already need to replace a significant amount of the hardware, my thinking is to increase the axle to a 3500# Dexter. Is this a possibility with this trailer. The current axle is a HF=94.00, OB=81.75, SA: 00NT. This trailer also is using 185/80R13 tires. While Im at it, Id like to increase this to a 14 or 15inch tire if possible.
asked by: Andy B
Expert Reply:
You can absolutely replace your current 2200lb Dexter Torflex axle with a 3500lb axle with a brake mounting flange, but keep in mind this will not increase the GVWR of your trailer.
Since your Torflex axle does not use leaf springs I recommend going with the Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System w Electric Brake Hubs - Straight Spindle - 3,500 lbs # A35RS545E which will bolt right up to your trailers frame and does not use leaf springs as it has built in progressive rate AEON springs. This will keep you from having to add all of the leaf spring hangers, and leaf springs.
The # A35RS545E comes with brake assemblies and drums so it is a great kit for what you are wanting to do.
Since the included drums have the common 5 on 4-1/2" that gives you a lot of options when it comes to 14" or 15" wheels and tires.
I recommend going with the Karrier ST205/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 14" White Spoke Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D # AM32161 as they are the closest in size to the 185/80R13 tires so they will more than likely fit without any interference to your fenders or frame.
The ST205/75R14 measures 26.3" tall and 8.1" wide where your 185/80R13 tires measure 24.4" tall and 7.2" wide. You will just need to make sure there is roughly 4" between the top of your current tires to confirm the fit.
Now to complete your electric trailer brake conversion you will need to replace the 4-way connector on your trailer with a 7-way connector using # H20044 and junction box # 38656 to make all the connections. You will need to run some # 10-1-1 from the junction box to each trailer brake magnet using heat shrink butt connectors # DW05745-5 for a weather tight connection.
You will also need to add a break away kit. I recommend the Hopkins Engager Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit with Built-In Battery Charger - Top Load # 20400 due to its built in battery charger to keep the battery charged in the unfortunate event that the breakaway kit is needed.
Lastly you will need to make sure that your tow vehicle has a 7-way connector and trailer brake controller installed. If it does not just let me know the Year/Make/Model and I would be happy to recommend all of the components you will need.
I included videos of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.
Products Referenced in This Question
Hopkins Engager Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit with Built-In Battery Charger - Top Load
- Trailer Breakaway Kit
- Kit with Charger
- Top Load
- Single-axle
- Tandem-axle
- LED Tester
- Hopkins
more information >
Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension w Electric Brakes - Standard Duty - No Drop - 5 on 4-1/2 - 3.5K
- Trailer Axles
- Rubber Spring Suspension
- Easy Lube Spindles
- Electric Brakes
- 3500 lbs
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Universal Fit
- No Drop or Lift
- Timbren
more information >
Karrier ST205/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 14" White Spoke Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Radial Tire
- Load Range D
- 205/75-14
- 14 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Powder Coat
- Kenda
more information >
Deka Heat Shrink Butt Connector - 12-10 Gauge - Nylon Insulation - Yellow - Qty 5
- Wiring
- Wire Connectors
- Butt Connectors
- 12-10 Gauge
- Deka
more information >
7-Way Molded Trailer Wire Connector, 6' Long
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- 6 - 10 Feet Long
- Plug and Lead
- 7 Round - Blade
- Hopkins
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Malone MicroSport Trailer - 78" Crossbars - 800 lbs
- Kayak Trailer
- Crossbar Style
- 2 Kayaks
- 20 Feet Long
- 800 lbs
- Extra Long Tongue
- 6-1/2W x 13L Foot
- Galvanized Steel
- Malone
more information >
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