Adding Electric Brakes to Northern Tool UltraTow 5x8 Aluminum Frame Trailer

Published 11/14/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension w/ Idler Hubs - Standard Duty - No Drop - 5 on 4-1/2 - 2K

(111)

$750.30

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

(104)

$1.64

Brake Mounting Flange for 1-3/4" Round Trailer Axles - 2K

(31)

$26.33

Ring Terminal - 12-10 Gauge Wire - 3/16" Ring ID

(70)

$1.33

etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K

(3076)

$171.80

Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 10" - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased

(1745)

$101.25

Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension - Standard Duty - No Drop - 4 Bolt Flange - 2,000 lbs

(126)

$753.71

Wiring Kit for Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuators

(12)

$83.69

4" Carbon Fiber Digital Caliper

(26)

$12.14

Question:

I am looking to replace the axle on a Northern Tool Ultra Tow 5x8 Aluminum Trailer. I am not looking to increase capacity as much as gain electric brakes. What are your recommendations?

asked by: Richard H

Expert Reply:

Because the trailer doesn't have a traditional size, in order to upgrade to trailer brakes you will need to have a welder install the Brake Mounting Flange for 1-3/4" Round Trailer Axles - 2K # 4-34 which will require the proper jig to ensure placement and alignment. Then you will need to measure your spindles to help get the correct replacement hubs to add the integrated drum. I've attached a photo of the locations to measure with a digital caliper like # PTW80157 to assist in getting compatible drums by measuring the inner bearing, outer bearing, and seal locations.

The best alternative is to use the Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System - Spindle w/Brake Flange - Regular Tires - 2,000 lbs # ASR2000S02. This will replace your leaf spring suspension and your axle. You will need to use 2x2 inch square tubing between the assemblies (not included). Then you can use the Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 3,500-lb E-Z Lube Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2 # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K and the brake assemblies # AKEBRK-35-SA. These will work with your current wheels. We don't have any straight axles under 3,500 lb capacity that include the brake flange, but you may want to consider that as well so I've linked the page to your options.

Then you will use # 10-1-1 to wire your brake assemblies and I recommend using the 7-Way Molded Trailer Plug with Junction Box # HS381-9000 along with ring terminals # 44-5310A to complete your wiring upgrade.