Recommended Brake Assemblies for Karavan Boat Trailer with 3500 lb Axle

Question:

I have a Karavan boat trailer with a 3500lb axle, 5 bolt, 14 inch tires and Attwood surge brake system10DRUM/ brake lockout option. I want the best brake recommendation for in/out of saltwater and freshwater. I currently dont use the lockout function because Im still perfecting the whole backing up thing! I also want to know if I can use the Bearing Buddy systemstainless The manual is saying that a spring loaded dust seal should be 1.750 ID, 2.565 OD. Replacing wheel bearings and seals as well. I look forward to your recommendations.

asked by: Christopher P

Expert Reply:

For your brake assemblies, I recommend the Demco Hydraulic Brake Kit - Free Backing - Galvanized - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K # 40716-15. These galvanized assemblies will work very well for saltwater or freshwater use, resisting corrosion. The free backing design allows you to back up without using the lockout on your coupler. This will absolutely fit your 3500 lb axle.

For your Bearing Buddies, bearings, and seals, you very likely have the standard size 84 spindle but I recommend measuring to confirm or checking the face of your bearings and seals for a part number. If you have a traditional size spindle, which may or may not be the case...then you would use the outer bearing # L44649 with inner diameter 1.063 inches and inner bearing # L68149 with inner diameter 1.378 inches. We don't carry a seal that has the exact measurements you gave. I'm assuming that the Grease Seal - Double Lip - ID 1.719" / OD 2.565" - for 3,500-lb Axles # 58846 would be a proper fit, but I highly recommend checking your bearing, seal, and cap measurements using a digital caliper like # PTW80157. The Spindle Grease Seal Set # BB60002 is designed for use with bearing buddies. This can be used with Bearing Buddy Bearing Protectors - Model 2562SS - Stainless Steel (Pair) # BB2562SS or Bearing Buddy Bearing Protectors - Model 1980A-SS w/ Auto Check - Stainless Steel (Pair) # BB1980A-SS depending on the inner measurement of your hub.

Because trailer companies don't keep a master list of parts even if you have the VIN or Serial Number of your trailer, measuring is really the only way to confirm you get the correct parts. I've attached a photo to assist as well as an article to help further.