Is There a Replacement Spindle For a Dexter D44, 4400LB Trailer Axle?

Question:

Hello - I cant find an exact replacement spindle for Dexter D44 4400lb axles. The 3500lb one looks similar in the picture and I know some of the parts are shared between 3500 and 4400. Is the 3500lb spindle compatible with D44 4400lb? If not, do you have a suggestion for the D44 4400lb application? Thank you.

asked by: Nathan H

Expert Reply:

My recommendation is to replace your axle with a 5,200lb like # e55SR as the 4,400lb spindle is so uncommon they are not readily available. This will give you stronger components to lessen the chance of you having to replace a spindle in the future. If you can provide me with the dimensions for your axle I can verify the correct replacement for your D44 axle.

The #84 E-Z Lube Spindle # TRU74FR while similar has a narrower diameter of 1-1/16" for the outer bearing where a 4,400lb uses 1-1/4". If you were to use this you would lower your maximum capacity and need to change your hubs to work with the spindle.

expert reply by: Bud M

Edward

3/11/2024

Bud, I am trying to convert my D44 4400 lb dexter axles from drum to disc brakes. The factory system just doesn't have enough stopping power. It looks like my existing 4400 lb axles use the same 10" drums as the 3500 lb axles. I need to stay with my 5 on 4 1/2 bolt pattern as I have already upgraded from 14" wheels to 15" wheels with Michelin LT tires at a cost of about $3500. I don't think 5200 lb axles would work as the wheel clearances are already close meaning I can't go to larger wheels that the additional bolt pattern and 5200 lb size disc brakes would require. I think that goes from a 10" to a 11" rotor. Is there a way to convert over to 3500 lb disc brakes and keep the same wheel bolt pattern. I could as a last resort get 6 bolt wheels but need to stay at 15" to use existing new tires because of clearance issues. 2021 Alta East to West 2810 KIK trailer Thanks, ED

Bud M.

3/12/2024

@Edward Unfortunately you would have to switch to a larger 5,200lb axle as there are no disc brake kits I can find for a 4,400lb axle. While it would be possible to mount a idler hub with a slip on rotor even the backing plate has a slightly different bolt pattern so the mounting brackets we have for the caliper would not fit. If you can provide me with your axle serial numbers I can check and see if we have a replacement D52 axle we can outfit with disc brakes and wheels with the 6 on 5-1/2" bolt pattern so you can reuse your 15" tires.

Edward D.

3/12/2024

@BudM The Dexter axle is 7665884 D44 Capacity: 4400 lbs HF=86.50. SC=68.50 Thanks ED

Bud M.

3/13/2024

@EdwardD So we do have the Dexter Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes # 8327816-EB which matches your hub face of 86.5" but you will have to have 2 Spring Seats # TRSS300 welded at your 68.5". The larger brakes have more surface area for increased braking resistance. To go with disc brakes we have the Axle # 8327816 which will also need the Seats # TRSS300 welded on. Then you will need 2 of the Disc BraKe Kits # KOD56FR for both axles along with a Brake Line Kit # 20TA-BLKIT. Next you will need a Actuator # HBA16. For wheels we have several different options but I do like the # TA32FR for its price point and durability.