Can Trailer with 3,500 lb Trailer Axles Swap From Hub/Drums to Idler Hubs
Updated 04/23/2026 | Published 04/18/2026
Question:
I have an old covered trailer with tandem 3500lb torsion axles. Both have electric brake drums that no longer work and I don’t need brakes. Can I install regular idler hubs like AKIHUB-545-35-EZ-K on axles with backing plates?
asked by: Matt P
Expert Reply:
Hey Matt, yes you can replace hub/drums with idler hubs like the part # AKIHUB-545-35-EZ-K which is correct for your 3,500 lb axles. The backing plate would not interfere with the mounting of the hubs and you'd have fully functional idler hubs instead.
That said you might check to make sure it's legal in your area to tow a trailer as heavy as what you have without breaks.
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: Most Popular Wheel Bearings
- Shop: Loadstar ST205/75D15 Trailer Tire with Silver Mod Wheel - 5 on 5
- Shop: Demco DA75 Trailer Brake Actuator for Drum Brakes - Zinc Plated - 2" Ball - 7,500 lbs
- Video: Review of Demco Brake Actuator - DA75 Trailer Drum Brake Actuator - DM28CV
- Q&A: Replacement Brake Actuator For 1995 ShoreLander Trailer With Drum Brakes
- Shop: Timken Replacement Trailer Wheel Bearing - L44643
- Shop: Gas Shock - 40 lb Force - 20" Extended, 11.41" Compressed - Black Nitride
- Shop: CE Smith Offset Spare Tire Mount - Galvanized Steel - 4- and 5-Lug Wheels
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: What is a #84 Spindle and How Do I Know I Have One On My Trailer?
- Article: How to Tell the Weight Rating of a Trailer Axle
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Q&A: Does The Kenda Karrier KR53 ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire Come Balanced?
- Q&A: Replacement Hub for Tie Down Engineering 11033
- Q&A: Looking For Pre-Greased Hubs For Utility Trailer With Timken 442251 Seals
- Q&A: Replacement Hub Assembly for T.D.E. 11033
- Q&A: Correct Replacement for TDE 46210 Trailer Hub
- Article: How to Adjust Your Trailer Brakes | The Ultimate Guide
- Article: Replacing the Bearing, Races and Seals on a Trailer Hub
- Article: Trailer Lighting Requirements
Jon B.
4/23/2026
I put these exact spindles & hubs on my 1989 drop axle boat trailer. I too did not need brakes. My welder cut the backing plates off when installing the spindles. Since then, I have taken the boat from home in Wisconsin to Canada (800+ miles) and many smaller trips. All is good. I now have the benefit of having standard bearings and grease seals with my new spindles & hubs.