Recommended Suspension for 5x8 Northern Tool Trailer

Updated 06/29/2018 | Published 06/27/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension w Electric Brakes - Standard Duty - No Drop - 5 on 4-1/2 - 3.5K

(25)

$1595.38

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6643)

$155.79

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3397)

$121.25

Hopkins Plug-In Simple Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(300)

$83.02

Question:

I am planning to build a tear trailer using a 5X8 Northern Tool trailer non-folding. I drive a Subaru Outback with standard-sized 225/60R17 tires and the standard ground clearance. I want to replace the NT axle, suspension, and wheels with a set up that includes electric brakes and larger highway-speed wheels to better fit my tow vehicle. Can you recommend the axle, suspension, electric brakes, and controller? My trailer will be no more than 2000 lbs. fully loaded.

asked by: Sarah

Expert Reply:

The best suspension to add is going to be an axle-less system from Timbren. These are universal fits and I highly recommend checking out the Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System w Electric Brake Hubs # A35RS545E. This will give you a full suspension with electric brakes.

In terms of a brake controller for your 2012 Subaru Outback you first need the appropriate wiring: 4-way # HM11143865 and Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7, which will give you a 7- and 4-way trailer connector, circuit breakers and the rest of the hardware needed to install a brake controller.

As for the brake controller itself, I strongly recommend the Prodigy P3 # 90195; it is the most popular model we carry due to its effectiveness and ease of use. It will activate your trailer's brakes immediately in proportion to your Subaru's brakes and offers three different boost levels so you can adjust your braking power.

The P3 levels automatically, has constant diagnostic checks, contains safeguards which defend your controller against shorts, and features an LCD display which is much easier to read than that of other controllers. This controller has been met with nearly universal praise; it has been reviewed by our customers more than 2,000 times and is averaging close to 5 out of 5 stars.