Should 1 or 2 Axles Have Brakes on Tandem Axle Trailer

Question:

Hello my name is Jon, I have a 2005 Jayco Jay series pop up camper I am interested in converting to Electric brakes, getting away from the hydraulic factory installed at the four wheels. My questions are do I need to do both axles or 1? My trailer has twin torsion axles with 12” 5.3 tires 4x4 bolt pattern. I would like to convert to electric brakes and would need to remove the master cylinder from the to use and lock it out. I appreciate your help and advise.

asked by: Jonathan P

Expert Reply:

You really want brakes on both axles of your trailer. If you only put them on a single axle they're going to be stopping the full weight of the trailer when it is really designed to be shared with another set of brakes. Also, there are state laws that require brakes on both axles so if you add them to both you don't have to worry about local laws.

You will need to know your axle capacity to find the correct brake assemblies. This information is typically on the axle tag. If you have the serial number you can also send that information to the axle manufacturer to identify the axles.

A hub and drum assembly with a 4 on 4 pattern like the # 8-173-16UC3 is typically associated with a 2,200 lb axle with # L44649 inner and outer bearings. If that is what you have you can use the # 23-47-48 for brakes. You may have a hub and drum assembly that is specifically designed for hydraulic brakes so it would be a good idea to swap those out as well. If you have that serial number the manufacturer can tell you what hubs came with it assuming they haven't been replaced.

In addition to the brake assemblies you will need 7-way wiring, a breakaway, and a brake controller. I recommend the following:

-7-Way Molded Connector # 50-67-103 (Trailer Wiring Junction Box # 38656 is optional)

-Hopkins Engager Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit with Built-In Battery Charger # 20400

-Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller # RED52VR

You will also need a 7-way on your vehicle if you don't already have one. The # ETBC7 upgrades your 4-way to a 7-way. However, there may be a custom wiring harness depending on your vehicle.

I have attached a help article below which covers the parts needed add electric brakes in detail for your reference.