Comparing 3,500 lb Dexter and etrailer Axle Hubs for Trailer with 5 on 5 inch Bolt Pattern

Question:

I just bought a Texas Bragg tandem axle utility trailer with brakes on one axle. I would like to add brakes to the idler axle. The 3500lb axles are Dexter EZ-lube, with 15inch wheel 5 on 5. The idler appears to have a brake flange in place see picture. I dont know at this time if the existing brakes are manual or self adjusting. For the brake assembly, I plan to use your part 23-468-469 dexter 10inch Nev-R-Adjust. Looking at the hub/drum options, I cant really tell what the differences are that go along with a price range of $. Can you tell me the significant differences between the following items to help me make an informed choice? I dont mind paying more if Im getting a corresponding benefit. 84556UC3-EZ 84556UC3 AKHD-550-35-K AKHD-550-35-EZ-K Thanks!

asked by: Nick H

Helpful Expert Reply:

All of the hubs you mentioned are correct for your application as they are for 3,500 lb axles with a 5 on 5 inch bolt pattern like you need. The brake assemblies part # 23-468-469 would also work with them all as well.

So the Dexter brand is widely considered to be the highest quality so that would explain why they cost more. The Dexter hubs # 84556UC3-EZ have the EZ lube grease cap that allows you to access the grease fitting by pulling off the rubber plug. The part # 84556UC3 is exact same except has the cap without the plug.

Now the etrailer hubs # AKHD-550-35-K and # AKHD-550-35-EZ-K are considered to be a value brand but they also are well made and would work great as well. We do not see issues with these hubs at all and as far as we can tell they are just as reliable as the Dexters. These are also pre-greased too which means they are ready to throw on as soon as you get them. The # AKHD-550-35-K is version without EZ lube cap and # AKHD-550-35-EZ-K is version with it.