What Is The Difference Between Dexter ABS 4400lbs And 3500lbs Brake Assemblies? Both Are 10"

Question

Question:

What’s the difference between the Dexter 4.4K and 3.5K ABS brake assemblies? They both look like 10-inch brakes.

asked by: Allen

0

Expert Reply:

Good catch, Allen - both the 3.5K # DX73WR and 4.4K # DX83WR use 10 inch x 2-1/4 inch shoes, but the 4.4K version is built for a heavier spindle and a different bearing combo. The 4.4K uses L68149 inner and LM67048 outer bearings, while the 3.5K uses L68149 and L44649. The backing plates are different bolt patterns and the sensors are tuned for those axle specs, so they’re not interchangeable.

If you’re unsure which axle you’ve got, measuring your tube diameter (2-3/8 inch for 3,500lbs vs 3 inch for 4400lbs) or reading the bearing numbers will confirm it.

expert reply by: Andrew N

0

Allen

11/3/2025

Thanks, Andrew. That clears it up. My trailer is a 2022 Jayco Eagle HT and the axle tag says 4,400 lbs, but I just wanted to make sure since both brakes looked almost identical online. I’ll double-check my bearings before ordering.

Andrew N.

11/3/2025

@Allen That’s a great plan, Allen; those 10" Dexter ABS assemblies can fool you at a glance since the housings look so similar. With your Jayco’s 4.4K axles, the # DX83WR will be the perfect fit. Just make sure the bearings match up (inner L68149, outer LM67048) and you’ll be all set.

Tony H.

9/13/2026

The brake shoes are the same size. They are the same. Axle tube has nothing to do with braking power. It is a liability issue. Dexter has made special axles for RV's. 2,700lb with 3,500lb bearings and brakes for example. The axle tube determines the rating. I have Dexter torsion axles rated for 3,900lb with 3" tubes that use 3,500lb bearings they say can be rated up to 4,000lbs. 3,500lb brakes are under rated 4,400lb units that have a wider bolt distance on the bottom so Dexter and the industry can charge more. If a drum brake backing plate spins on the bolts during braking a wider bolt/stud space is not going to matter. I do hope I have the 4,400lb units on my 3,900lb axles but I doubt it.

Answer 1

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Answer 10

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What Is The Difference Between Dexter ABS 4400lbs And 3500lbs Brake Assemblies? Both Are 10"

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