What Info Is Needed to Add Brakes to a Trailer Axle
Updated 10/27/2025 | Published 03/03/2025
Question:
I am wanting to add brakes to a trailer that currently does not have brakes. what do i need besides the wheel kit?
asked by: Robert K
Expert Reply:
Hey Robert, basically what you need to add brakes to a trailer is three things. The correct hub/drums to replace your idler hubs, brake assemblies, and wire to wire up the assemblies.
To pick out the correct hub/drums we need two pieces of info. The wheel bolt pattern you have as well as the axle capacity. Then from there we'll know the correct brake assemblies. Then for wire you'd want 10 gauge wire like the part # 10-1-1.
I attached a link to a page that will walk you through this process as well.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Trailer
- Shop: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Dash Knob - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional
- Video: Install: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness on a 2022 Honda Ridgeline
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Video: Best 2017 Honda Ridgeline Trailer Brake Controller Options
- Video: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller Review RED24FR
- Search Results: red arc liberty
- Search Results: brake controller kit
- Search Results: redarc trailer brake controller
- Search Results: 5 on 5 hub
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Hydraulic Disc Brakes to a Trailer
- Shop: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional
- Shop: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Dash Knob - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional
- Shop: Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3,500-lb Axles - 5 on 5 - Pre-Greased
- Shop: Wiring Kit for 2, 4, 6, and 8 Brake Electric Trailer Brake Controllers
- Shop: Easy Grease Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 5 on 5 - Pre-Greased
- Q&A: How to Wire Electric Brakes on a Tandem Axle Trailer
- Q&A: Do I Need Brakes On Both Axles of a Car Hauler Trailer?
- Q&A: Can Brakes be Installed on Only One of the Axles of a Tandem Axle Trailer
- Q&A: When Do Brakes Need to be Added to Both Axles of Tandem Axle Trailer
- Search Results: bearing
- Search Results: 7 pin rv to 7 pin round
- Shop: Trim Kits
- Video: etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes Review
- Video: Hands-On with the Electric Trailer Brake Assembly
- Video: Detailed Breakdown of the etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes
- Q&A: What Size Wire is Needed to Wire Up GE Profile Fridge with Freezer
- Q&A: Looking for Replacement RV Fridge for Norcold N811FRT
- Q&A: Parts Needed to Add Brakes to Ranger Boat Trailer
on Wiring
Jameson C.
10/27/2025
Hey Robert, how did things go with adding brakes to your trailer? Were the hub/drums and 10-gauge wire the right match for your setup? Your update could make it easier for the next person doing the same upgrade.