Can Brake Actuator Be Used For Single AND Tandem Axle Brakes On Trailer?
Updated 05/06/2026 | Published 05/02/2026
Question:
Can the same brake actuator be used for a tandem axle and single axle? I have a tandem axle trailer with brakes on a single axle.
asked by: Courtney I
Expert Reply:
Good afternoon Courtney.
Yes, the same brake actuator can be used on single or dual axle trailers. Just make sure to match up to the style of brakes you have since some actuators are only for drum brakes and some are only for disc brakes.
Most trailers only have brakes on one axle so that is completely normal. Some DO have two braking axles though. My 7k dual axle just has one braking axle though.
What trailer and brake style do you have? Surge brakes or something else? If you tell me some more info and weight rating etc. then I can find an actuator that works for you.
David N.
5/6/2026
Yes, same brakes. I had two braking axles, and when I added new back planes, pucks, shoes and drums, I added to only one axle and gutted the second axle due to a smaller trailer and lower loads.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Brake Mounting Bolt for 7" and 10" Brake Assemblies
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Hydraulic Drum Brakes
- Hardware
- 7 Inch
- 10 Inch
- Bolts
- Redline
more information >
Continue Researching
- Search Results: bargman breakaway cable
- Search Results: trailer break away cable
- Search Results: break away kit
- Search Results: ufp a 60 brake actuator
- Video: Review of Dexter Axle Emergency Break Away Cable Repair Kit - DX64XR
- Q&A: Can Dexter Axle Disc Brake Actuator Be Used for Single and Tandem Axle Trailers
- Shop: Replacement 3/32" Safety Cable for Demco Brake Actuators - Qty 1
- Shop: Replacement Breakaway Cable for Dexter Model 60 Brake Actuators
- Shop: Emergency Break Away Cable Repair Kit for Dexter Axle A-60 Brake Actuators
- Shop: Replacement Emergency Breakaway Cable Kit for Dexter A-75 and A-84 Brake Actuators
- Video: In-Depth Review of the Easy Grease Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3.5K Axles
- Shop: Replacement Inner Member for Dexter DX7.5L Actuator - Tandem Axle w/ Disc - 2" Ball - 7,500 lbs
- Q&A: Replacement Hubs For Loadmaster Trailer With Tandem Axles
- Shop: #84 Spindle for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 2" Diameter
- Shop: Easy Grease Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 3.5K Axles - 5 on 4-1/2 - Galvanized
- Video: Remove and Reinstall a Trailer Hub Review
- Q&A: Method for removing and Installing Tang-Style Spindles Washers
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Video: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags with Easy Mount Compressor Feature Breakdown
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Video: A Look at the Power Mountain Tallboy 6 Ton Off-Road Bottle Jack with a Military Cargo Trailer
on Accessories and Parts
Edgar H.
5/6/2026
My trailer has two axles. And I have disc brakes on both axles. And it works great.