Parts Needed to Add Surge Brakes to Trailer with 3,500 lb Axle
Updated 02/03/2026 | Published 07/28/2024
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I am looking to spec out what I need to add surge brakes to my boat trailer. Trailer is for a tahoe T18 boat, manufactured by white river marine. It has a swing away tongue which I will need to use. 3500lb axle, 14 wheel, 5 on 4.5 lugs. I assume I want free free backing? What other information do you need? Can you provide recommendations on actuator, brake hub/assembly, drum assembly and hose line kit. Thank you!
asked by: Adam D
Expert Reply:
Hey Adam, thanks for all of the info you listed. With that I can easily help you pick out what you'd need to convert your trailer to surge drum brakes.
First you would need to start with hub drums like the part # 84546UC3-EZ which have the bolt pattern you mentioned. Then for brake assemblies the part # AKFBBRK-35 is a set of free-backing plates like you would want as well. Then for a brake line you'd want the part # 18SI-BLKIT.
Then for a surge actuator the part # 099-175-00 would work great and would be easy to use. It should have no problem being used with your hinge assembly either.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Dexter Trailer Hub & Drum Assembly for 3,500-lb Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Hub with Drum
- Pre-Greased
- Standard
- L68149 / L44649
- Standard Grade
- For 3500 lbs Axles
- 1/2 Inch Stud
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- 13 Inch Wheel
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- Dexter
more information >
Continue Researching
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Trailer
- Q&A: Difference Between Dexter and etrailer Hub/Drum Assembly for 3,500 lb Axles
- Q&A: Comparing the eTrailer and Dexter Electric Trailer Brake Kits
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: Parts Needed to Add Brakes to a 3.5K Single Axle Trailer
- Q&A: Replacement Hub, Drum and Brake Assemblies for AL KO 3,500 lb Axle
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: Can 10 x 2-1/4 Drum and Brakes Replace 10 x 2-1/2 Drum on Trailer
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Q&A: Instructions to Wire a Trailer for Electric Brakes
- Article: Electric Trailer Brakes: How They Work & What to Buy
- Article: How to Accurately Measure Trailer Leaf Springs
Jameson C.
2/3/2026
Hey Adam, how did the surge brake setup for your boat trailer turn out with the hub drums, free-backing brake kit, and actuator you picked? Your update could make it easier for the next person converting a similar trailer.