Replacement Brakes and Hubs for a Vintage Trailer with Warner Brakes

Question:

Given the age of the components, I think the cleanest option would be complete axle, brake, and hub replacement. It is a two axle trailer with 15” tires with 6 on 5-1/2 spacing. The current axles have a 4” drop, but I think a straight axle would be fine since I have an adjustable tongue setup. I was told that the axles are 3500lb but I think to retain the bolt pattern I would need to bump up to larger axles. Or replace my wheels and tires too and go to a 5 lug setup. The hub to hub face measurement is 95” and the spring to spring center measurement is 77”. I would like complete axle options suggestions.

asked by: Matt

Expert Reply:

Unfortunately, we do not have the 14” diameter x 2” wide braking assemblies you need for your trailer. I also did some searching online and could not find any replacement parts for you either. The only option I can offer you would be to replace with a more common size. In order to do so I would need you to measure your brake mounting flange bolt pattern in addition to your inner bearing, outer bearing, and grease seal. I have attached a help article on how to measure the bearing/seals for you. Please let me know when you have completed the above and I would be glad to make sure you get the correct parts.

The other option you have which you mentioned would be to replace the spindle at which point I would just recommend a new axle. If you would like a recommendation for a new axle then I would need to know your spring center and hub face measurement in addition to the axle's weight capacity.

expert reply by: Conner L

Matt

7/16/2018

Conner L.

7/16/2018

I do have an option for you but we do not have any traditional straight axles that have the above dimensions. Instead, I recommend taking a look at the Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension System part # ASR3500S04. This system is actually an upgrade for your entire suspension as it will replace the leaf springs, leaf spring hangers, and trailer axle. It uses rubber aeon springs which absorb road shock and support the trailer's load much better than a standard axle and leaf spring combo. This system will also retain the 4" drop your trailer has now. As you can see from the install video, they are fairly easy to put on. For the braking assembly you can use the Electric Trailer Brake Kit part # AKEBRK-35 and for a hub/drum you can use the Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly part # AKHD-655-35-EZ-K. This setup will allow you to retain the 15" wheels with 6 on 5-1/2" bolt pattern that you have now.