Parts Needed to Add Timbren Suspension and Electric Drum Brakes to Tear Drop Trailer Build Project  

Expert Reply:

Timbren offers their axle-less trailer suspension systems in many configurations, some with brakes and drums, others with idler hubs for applications without brakes. All of their kits are shown on the linked page.

A trailer can require brakes based on its gross weight, GVWR. You want to choose the Timbren kit that matches the trailer's intended GVWR. You do not want to pick a system that is rated for more weight than your trailer will have as this will tend to produce a rougher ride. The kit you referenced, part # A20RS545, is rated for 2000-lb trailers and includes idler hubs (no brakes). This is probably a good choice for the weight of a tear drop trailer. You can check your state laws for trailer brake requirements based on the completed trailer's expected dimensions and weight.

If your trailer will weigh enough you could use the 3500-lb-rated kit # A35RS545E which includes electric drum brakes and hub/drums, bearings, seals, etc. Electric brake installation on your trailer will require a 7-way plug like # H20044, a wiring junction box like # 38656 and 10-gauge wiring like # 10-1-1 to wire the brakes. You will also need other items including a breakaway kit, wiring connectors and a trailer brake controller such as the Prodigy P2 # 90885.

If your Cherokee does not have the tow package you will install the P2 using kit # ETBC7 and 4-pole kit # 118605. These items give you all the parts needed to hardwire the controller and install the required 7-way socket on the Cherokee.

You can refer to the linked article for a complete recap of the items needed to add electric drum brakes to a trailer.