Does It Matter Which Way the Trailer Axle Is Facing

Updated 08/15/2019 | Published 08/14/2019

Question:

I just bought 2 axles for my trailer with brakes, no clue whos brakes or what features but I think I may have installed the axles backwards the wires for the brakes exit after the axle on the backing plates, I think that means the horseshoe bracket thing may be in the wrong direction. Does it matter or so I have to turn my axles around now? The mfg stickers on the axles are facing the rear of the trailer at the moment.

asked by: Eugene

Expert Reply:

The axles cannot really be installed backwards but if the braking assemblies are on the wrong side then that would indeed be an issue. In order to check this you will simply need to pull one of the hubs and take a look at what direction the actuating arm is pointed. The actuating arm should be pointed towards the front of the trailer but if it is not then you can either turn the axle around or just swap out the braking assemblies side to side.

expert reply by: Conner L