Adding Lug Style Hubs and Electric Brakes to Old Triple Axle Trailer With Dayton Wheels
Updated 11/03/2025 | Published 01/25/2025
Question:
I have a tri axle trailer I would like to convert to lug style hubs and wheels. Will I be able to convert this easily ? To 8 bolt hubs and wheels ? How about the electric brakes ? Or will I have to change the axles space s out ? My concern is also clearance from the 14.5 Dayton wheels to a regular 16. Let me know if you’ve run in to this before. Thank you
asked by: Tyler
(click to enlarge)
(click to enlarge)
Expert Reply:
Hey Tyler; looking at your picture there I don't think this will be an easy conversion. You could swap hubs over no problem assuming you had a standard bearing combination. However, it looks like the backing plate on the brakes is welded on. This style isn't used anymore so you will need a regular brake flange. An axle shop might be able to cut that off and add a brake flange but, assuming they can, the cost would probably be the same or more than getting a new axle.
If you're going to replace the axles you will need the capacity and hub face measurement. Our highest rated axles are 7,000 lbs and those look like they're pretty heavy duty so you may have to find a replacement elsewhere. As far as clearance is concerned, I don't think you will have an issue on spacing between the tires but you may on the top and inside depending on how much clearance you have now. If you can let me know your exact tire size in the comments below I can find out how much clearance would be lost with the 16" tires.
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etrailer Rubber Hitch Cover for 2" Trailer Hitches - Qty 1
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Robin H.
11/3/2025
Hey Tyler, what did you end up doing with the tri axle trailer—did you go ahead with new axles or find a way to make the conversion work? Your update could make it easier for others thinking about switching from Dayton wheels to 16-inch ones.