Parts Needed to Add Electric Brakes to Tandem Axle Utility Trailer
Updated 01/27/2025 | Published 01/26/2025
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I bought a new tandem utility trailer and would like to add trailer brakes to an axle. How would I identify what kit I would need for this, thanks
asked by: Zach H
Expert Reply:
Hey Zach, congrats on the new trailer!
You can either look at the info sticker near the tongue of the trailer to find the weight ratings of each axle or, if you can't find that, there is a sticker in the middle of each axle showing what the weight rating is.
Most tandem utility trailers have 3,500 or 5,200 lbs axles so you'll need the following depending on the weight rating:
3500 lb Axle
- Brake Kit # AKEBRK-35-SA
- Hub and Drum Assembly (2 per axle) # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K
5,200 lb Axle
- Brake Kit # AKEBRK-7-SA
- Hub and Drum Assembly (2 per axle) # AKHD-655-6-EZ-K
We'll also need to get you a length of 10 Gauge Wire # 10-1-1 to reach from a 7-Way plug at the front of your trailer back to your brake assemblies, as well as a breakaway kit # 3802346 for emergency stopping (required by law), and then a brake controller in your tow vehicle. If you don't already have a 7-Way then I also recommend installing the Junction Box # e99011 for a clean and easier way to make your wiring connections.
Attached is a helpful article on adding electric brakes to a trailer, as well as some installation videos you can reference.
If you let me know what tow vehicle you have I'd be more than happy to recommend a brake controller for you!
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Standard Grade
- Self Adjust
- 10 x 2-1/4 Inch Drum
- 3500 lbs Axle
- 13 Inch Wheel
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Search Results: trailer lights
- Video: etrailer 7 Way Upgrade Kit With Junction Box Installation
- Video: Review of etrailer Trailer Wiring - 7 Way Upgrade Kit - e99011
- Shop: etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Wiring 7-Way Upgrade Kit w/ Junction Box and RV Style Connector
- Article: How to Tell the Weight Rating of a Trailer Axle
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Wiring
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: Parts Needed To Lift Zieman F-714 Flat Bed Trailer
- Q&A: Can Trailer Brake Assemblies Ground at the Frame and the Connector
- Search Results: curt trailer breakaway kit
- Search Results: trailer breakaway kit
- Search Results: 7 pin wiring kit
- Search Results: 10 gauge wiring
- Q&A: Adding Standard 7-Blade Connector To Single Axle Box Trailer With 7-Way Round Pin Connector
- Q&A: Junction Box Wiring Kit for Wiring Up Trailer With Brakes and 7-Way
- Video: Review of CE Smith Trailer Suspension Parts - Standard Equalizer - CES76WR
- Shop: Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 10" - 6 on 5-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Shop: 12 Gauge Wire - Black Primary - Per Foot
- Q&A: Parts Needed To Add Electric Drum Brakes To A Trailer
- Shop: Mounting Nut for 7" and 10" Brake Assemblies - 7/16" Diameter - Zinc Plated
- Shop: Mounting Hardware for 10" Brake Assemblies
- Shop: Brake Mounting Hardware Kit for 7" and 10" Brake Assemblies
- Q&A: When Do Brakes Need to be Added to Both Axles of Tandem Axle Trailer
- Q&A: Rim Mounting Flange to Outer Portion of Tire on Taskmaster ST205/75D15 Trailer Tire 15 Black Wheel
- Video: Feature Breakdown: Fastway Zip Trailer Breakaway Switch with Coiled Cable
- Video: Feature Breakdown: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller
on Trailer Brakes
