Are Tandem Axle Utility Trailers Required To Have Brakes On Both Axles Or Only One?

Updated 05/08/2023 | Published 05/05/2023

Products Featured in This Question

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

(3366)

$152.75

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

(2016)

$105.96

Question:

I have a 12 ft trailer that is listed at 1800 lb gross weight it has a set of electric brakes on the rear of the tandem Wheels my question is do I need to have an additional set of electric brakes on the forward tandem wheels or is one set of electric brakes sufficient?

asked by: Mickee H

Expert Reply:

You will need to check the laws in your area to determine exactly what trailer brake requirements you have in your area. Some areas will allow for brakes on a single axle of a tandem axle trailer while others require brakes on both axles. So if you travel through different states you will most likely want to put brakes on both axles in case you are ever in an area which requires them on both. While I can't know for certain what parts you need it looks like your trailer likely has 3,500lb axles which use the 10"x2-1/4" Brakes # AKEBRK-35-SA and 2 Hub/Drums # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K. If you can locate the axle information sticker on the rear of the axle tube I may be able to verify exactly what all parts you will need without disassembling your hubs and measuring your spindle.

expert reply by: Bud M