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How to Choose Trojan Trailer Hubs — Braked vs Non-Braked, Stud Patterns & Sizing (NZ 2026)
How to Choose Trojan Trailer Hubs — NZ Buyer's Guide 2026
Trojan hubs are the most widely used trailer hubs in New Zealand. Whether you're replacing a worn hub, upgrading to braked hubs, or building a trailer from scratch, this guide will help you pick the right one.
Step 1: Braked or Non-Braked?
NZ law requires trailer brakes on any trailer with a GTM (Gross Trailer Mass) over 2000kg. Even below 2000kg, brakes are recommended for boat trailers used on steep ramps.
Non-Braked Hubs
For trailers under 2000kg GTM (light boat trailers, box trailers, garden trailers). Simpler, lighter, cheaper.
👉 Shop Trojan Non-Braked Hub Kits
Disc Braked Hubs
The modern choice for braked trailers. Disc brakes are cleaner, more consistent, and easier to inspect than drums. They also handle water better — important for boat trailers that get dunked at the ramp.
👉 Shop Trojan Disc Braked Hub Kits
Drum Braked Hubs
The traditional option. Still used on many older trailers and some heavy-duty applications. Available in hydraulic and electric.
👉 Shop Trojan Drum Braked Hub Kits
Step 2: Hub Kit or Hub & Stub Kit?
Hub Kit: The hub, bearings, seals, and dust cap — you mount it onto your existing stub axle.
Hub & Stub Kit: Includes everything above PLUS the stub axle. A complete bolt-on unit — ideal for new builds or when replacing the entire assembly.
- Disc Braked Hub & Stub Kits (27 options)
- Non-Braked Hub & Stub Kits (29 options)
Step 3: Stud Pattern
The stud pattern (also called bolt pattern or PCD) must match your trailer wheels. Common Trojan patterns:
| Pattern | Description | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| 4×4" | 4 studs on 4" (101.6mm) PCD | Light trailers, small boat trailers |
| 5×4½" | 5 studs on 4.5" (114.3mm) PCD | Most common NZ pattern — medium trailers |
| 6×5½" | 6 studs on 5.5" (139.7mm) PCD | Heavy-duty, matches many 4WD rims |
| 5×4¼" | 5 studs on 4.25" (108mm) PCD | Some European-style trailers |
| Ford | 5×4½" (same as standard) | Legacy Ford pattern |
| HT Holden | 5×4¼" | Older Holden-based trailers |
How to measure: Count the studs and measure the distance between the centres of two opposite studs (for even numbers) or from one stud centre to the far edge of the opposite gap (for odd numbers like 5-stud).
Step 4: Weight Rating
Trojan hubs come in standard weight ratings:
- 750kg — Light garden/box trailers
- 1000kg — Small boat trailers, general purpose
- 1500kg — Medium boat trailers (most popular)
- 2000kg — Large boat trailers, car transporters
- 2500kg+ — Heavy-duty commercial trailers
Always match the hub rating to your trailer's per-axle weight (GTM ÷ number of axles).
Bearings & Seals
Trojan hubs use standard tapered roller bearings. The two key maintenance items are:
- Bearings — Should be repacked with marine grease every 12 months or 10,000km
- Seals — Replace whenever you repack bearings or if you see grease leaking
We stock Trojan Bearing & Seal Kits for easy replacement.
Shop Trojan Hubs at Action Outdoors
We carry the full range of Trojan hub kits and hub & stub kits — over 100 options covering every stud pattern and weight rating. In stock at our Auckland shop for immediate pickup or fast NZ shipping.
👉 Browse All Trojan Trailer Parts
Not sure which hub you need? Take a photo of your current hub and stud pattern, then call us on 09 820 8023 or email sales@actionoutdoors.kiwi — we'll match it up for you.
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