Can Electric Brakes be Added to Trailer that Currently Has Idler Hub Installed  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

You can indeed add electric brakes to a trailer that is equipped with idler hub assemblies. With regards to the axle, you will want to check and see if the axle on your trailer has brake mounting flanged attached. If one is present (see attached image), then nothing on the axle itself needs to be replaced or altered. You will just move on to locating the correct hub and drum assemblies, brake assemblies, and wiring in order to equip the trailer with electric brakes.

If there is not a brake mounting flange attached behind the existing hubs, then you have a couple options. Replacing the entire axle with one that already has brake flanges welded in place may actually be the easier solution, as you can even order one with electric brake assemblies and drums included as well. Otherwise, you can purchase brake flanges to add to the trailer, but you will need to have a qualified welder with experience in this type of install weld them to the axle. It must be perfectly square and concentric, and this usually requires a jig to hold both parts in position.

I have attached a great article that details everything you will need to make this conversion on your trailer, starting with the axle itself. If you can tell me some information on your trailer, such as the axle capacity, bearing numbers used on your current hubs, as well as the year, make, and model of your tow vehicle, I will be happy to start recommending specific parts.

expert reply by: Chris R

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