Can You Reuse Hubs When Adding Electric Brakes to a Trailer Axle

Question:

I am adding electric brakes to a new trailer. The current axle does not have a drum on it. If I buy this kit do I need to replace the hub or can I use the existing hub?

asked by: Jason A

Expert Reply:

In order to add electric trailer brakes to a trailer you must first check to see if a brake mounting flange is welded to the axle behind the spindle. If so, you'll need to find the capacity which is usually on the tag in the center of the beam. If the axle did not have brakes previously then you'd need both the braking assembly and and a new hub/drum. If you have a 3,500 lb axle for example you'll need both the Electric Trailer Brake Kit part # AKEBRK-35-SA and Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly part # AKHD-545-35-K.

I have attached a list of the brakes and hubs/drums below if the above are not the correct size.

expert reply by: Conner L