Adding Electric Drum Brakes to Trailer with Timbren Axle-Less Suspension System

Updated 01/18/2016 | Published 01/16/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 2,000-lb E-Z Lube Axles - 7" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2

(672)

$225.94

Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension - Heavy Duty - Long Spindle w/ 4" Lift - 4 Bolt - 2K

(166)

$948.49

Question:

Hi. I have Timbren axel-less suspension for my trailer and the hubs are standard width and do not have brakes. I would like to add brakes. I expect I would need to change my hubs but not sure if I need to change the spindles. Also my wheels what diameter are the brake drums so I can see if they fit inside met wheels. Can you help me with what parts I would need for this conversion please? Thanks.

asked by: Ian W

Expert Reply:

If you currently have idler hubs on your Timbren suspension you will need to change them to hub/drums in order to install brakes on the trailer. You also need to have brake flanges on the Timbrens to allow installation of electric drum brake assemblies. Most brakes use a 4-bolt mounting flange like those on Timbren kit # ASR2KHDS03.

New hubs/drums must use the very same bearing set as your existing idler hubs to ensure they will fit on the spindles. The kit referenced above uses inner bearing L68149 and outer bearing L44649.
I linked our hub/drum page for parts that use these bearings; hub/drums are offered in various weight ratings such as for 2000-lb axle systems like the Timbren # ASR2KHDS03. You need to match the weight rating, bearing set and the wheel bolt pattern. Filters on the page will let you select your specific requirements. For each item we indicate the compatible wheel sizes, for example, hub/drum # T1544500042 works on 2000-lb systems, uses bearings L68149 and L44649, and has a 5-on-4-1/2 bolt pattern. This brake works with wheels from 10-inches to 13-inches in diameter.

Brakes will also be selected based on weight rating, drum dimensions and flange mounting pattern.
I linked our main page for electric drum brakes; just click on your axle capacity and hub/drum size to see compatible electric drum brakes.

Two articles are linked for you to help you with determining your wheel bolt pattern and to outline the overall process of adding brakes.

Electric trailer brakes requires a brake controller like the proven Prodigy P2 # 90885 to activate them when you brake the tow vehicle. This controller is favored for it's reliability, easy set-up and predictable performance in slowing your trailer in direct proportion to your tow vehicle.