Can I Remove My Brakes On My 3,500lb Axle And Replace With Idler Hubs?
Updated 09/08/2025 | Published 06/07/2025
Question:
Hi, I have a 3,500 lb trailer axle on a boat trailer with a bolt pattern of 5 x 4.5. I am having issues with the brakes on the trailer locking up. I want to remove the brake system completely and install just an idler hub for easier changes in the future. Would I be able to fully remove the whole drum brake backing plate etc and replace with just an idler hub? Thanks! Vin on Trailer: 1UL11MM33KA001166
asked by: Corey
Expert Reply:
Hey Corey,
If you are not liking the brakes you have on your trailer and want to remove them and go with idler hubs you definitely can, if your trailer is lightweight enough. I am not sure what your state laws are, or states you travel but some states require brakes on trailers that are certain weights.
Something like the idler hub # AKIHUB-545-35-EZ-K would work for you. One thing I would check since you already know your axle rating and bolt pattern is what seals you currently have in your drums. You want to match those up so they fit your spindle correctly. This idler hub uses the inner bearing L68149 and outer bearing L44649.
Let me know what bearings you have on yours and what the weight of your trailer is and I can find a more accurate idler for you. Otherwise you should be able to do that and be just fine.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Easy Grease Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Trailer Hubs and Drums
- Idler Hub
- EZ Lube
- Pre-Greased
- 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
- etrailer
more information >
Continue Researching
- Article: How to Tell the Weight Rating of a Trailer Axle
- Q&A: What is a #84 Spindle and How Do I Know I Have One On My Trailer?
- Q&A: Replacement Hub for Tie Down Engineering 11033
- Q&A: Correct Hub for Dexter EZ Lube 3,500-lb Axle
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Q&A: Replacement Brakes and Axle for 1997 Magic Tilt Boat Trailer
- Q&A: Replacement Idler Hub for a Dexter 3,500 lbs Axle
- Q&A: Proper Way to Tighten Trailer Spindle of Castle Nut
- Article: Replacing the Bearing, Races and Seals on a Trailer Hub
- Q&A: Is Drilling Required For Installation Of Roadmaster Front Anti-Sway Bar on 2026 Jayco Melbourne 24L
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Most Popular Wheel Bearings
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: How to Accurately Measure Trailer Leaf Springs
Nick S.
9/8/2025
Hey Corey, did you have a chance to check the bearings and the weight of your trailer to see if the idler hub is a good fit? I'm here to help if you need more assistance with your setup!