Do You Have to Get New Hubs/Drums and Brakes When Upgrading from a 3,500 to 5,200 Lb Axle

Question:

I have an 8.5 x 24 enclosed trailer that came with 3500lb axles. Can I order 5200lb axles and slip my hubs and brakes on to reuse them and my wheels and tires?

asked by: Jason J

Expert Reply:

In order to upgrade from a 3,500 lb to a 5,200 lb axle you'll need to obtain new hubs/drums and braking assemblies as the bearings and brake mounting flanges are different.

In order to choose the correct replacement axle for a trailer you'll need to measure the hub face (center of hub face to center of hub face) and spring center (center of spring center to center of spring center). This will then give you the info needed to pick out the correct replacement axle for your trailer. I have also attached a video I did to help others with this same thing so be sure to give that a watch.

The Dexter Trailer Axle with Electric Brakes part # 6340624-EB for example is a 5,200 lb axle which measures measures 95" long at the hub face and 80" at the spring center. I have attached a full list of our other 5,200 lb axles you can choose from once you have the info above. I have also attached our wheels and tires as the bolt pattern changes from a 5 on 4-1/2" to a 6 on 5-1/2".

expert reply by: Conner L