Parts Needed To Replace 3,500 Lb with 5,200 Lb Trailer Axles

Updated 09/05/2019 | Published 09/04/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes - E-Z Lube - 6 on 5-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 86-1/2" - 5.2K

(231)

$892.69

Dexter Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes - E-Z Lube - 6 on 5-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 95" - 5,200 lbs

(231)

$994.23

Dexter Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes - E-Z Lube - 6 on 5-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 89" - 5,200 lbs

(231)

$741.39

U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb, Round Trailer Axles - 7" Long U-Bolts

(2137)

$59.74

Question:

I recently put new springs, new pivots, heavy duty mor-ride shackles, and greasable shackle bolts on my travel trailer. Now Id like to replace the two Dexter 3500 lb. axles with electric brakes with 5200 lb. versions. Is this a bolt-on conversion? Will I need new u - bolts and mounting plates? My springs are above the axles. What do I need to do the same with new axles? What new wheels and tires will I need? Does etrailer sell these parts? Thank you.

asked by: Rick R

Expert Reply:

Yes, you can replace the 3,500 lb Dexter Axles with 5,200 lb Dexter Axles by simply swapping out the old for the new. That said, you will need new u-bolts as the axle will be larger in diameter (2-3/8" vs. 3"). The bolt pattern will also change from a 5 on 4-1/2" to a 6 on 5-1/2" so you will need new wheels/tires as well. Therefore, you will need new axle tubes, u-bolts, and wheels/tires in order to make the swap but these are all bolt-on parts.

For the axles you just need to measure your hub face and match that to part # 8327816-EB for 86-1/2", part # 8327820-EB for 89", or part # 6340624-EB for 95". The spring seats can be moved if needed. These options all come with hubs/drums and braking assemblies. For the u-bolts you can use the U-Bolt Kit for Mounting 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb, Round Trailer Axles part # APUBR-8.

I have attached a list of wheel/tire options with 6 on 5-1/2" bolt pattern for you below.

expert reply by: Conner L