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Parts Needed to Add Brakes to 3,500 lb Trailer Axle  

Updated 05/21/2026 | Published 05/18/2026

Question:

I have a tandem axle boat trailer with 3500 axles. It has hydraulic surge brakes but only on one axle. I want to add brakes to the second axle. What componets do I need to order including brakes, drums, bolts, and fittings for the brake lines? The axle is standard 4x4 bolt pattern.

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Expert Reply:

Hey Brian, yeah we can definitely help add brakes to your 3,500 lb trailer axle but if you for sure have a 4 on 4 inch bolt pattern you'd have to also replace your wheels too. Normally you would just need brake assemblies and hub/drums.

For brake assemblies you would want the part # AKEBRK-35-SA and then for hub/drums you'd want the part # AKHD-545-35-EZ-K for a 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern.

Are you sure you have 3,500 lb axles? They don't ever normally have a 4 lug bolt pattern and instead need a 5 or 6 lug bolt pattern.

expert reply by:
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Jameson C
Brian C. profile picture

Brian C.

5/18/2026

The 4x4 bolt pattern is where the backing plate bolts to the axle. The wheels are 5x4.5. What about the hydraulic line fittings. Is there a kit or do I need to buy the lines and such separate?

Jameson C. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Jameson C.

5/18/2026

@BrianC ahh I see what you mean now. Sorry I gave you electric brake assemblies. For hydraulic you would need Hydraulic Trailer Brake Kit - Uni-Servo - 10" - Left and Right Hand Assemblies - 3,500 lbs # AKUBRK-35. Then for a brake line kit it's going to be easiest to get a brake line kit like the part # 18SI-BLKIT to add the brake lines that are needed. The hubs I mentioned above would be correct.
Brian C. profile picture

Brian C.

5/21/2026

@JamesonC Is there a more corrsion resistant option? I was looking at Dexter part 023-548-00 and Dexter's galvanized drums. Also, what size and grade are the backing plate bolts?
Jameson C. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Jameson C.

5/21/2026

@BrianC We have a galvanized version of that hub/drum with the part # AKHD-545-35-G-EZ-K.
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