Trailer brakes are essential safety equipment that dramatically improve stopping distances and vehicle control when towing. Understanding how they work, how to maintain them, and how to properly adjust them can be the difference between a safe journey and a potentially catastrophic accident. This guide provides a thorough overview of trailer brakes, empowering you to tow with confidence.
Understanding the Importance of Trailer Brakes
Without trailer brakes, your tow vehicle bears the entire burden of stopping the combined weight of the truck and trailer. This increases stopping distances, puts undue stress on your vehicle’s braking system, and reduces overall control, especially in emergency situations or challenging road conditions. Trailer brakes distribute the stopping power, making towing safer, smoother, and more manageable. They protect your vehicle, your cargo, and, most importantly, your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Types of Trailer Brakes
Choosing the right type of trailer brake system is crucial for optimal performance. There are two primary types:
- Electric Brakes: The most common type, electric brakes are activated by an electrical signal sent from the tow vehicle’s brake controller to electromagnets inside the trailer brake drums. These electromagnets then engage the brake shoes against the drum, slowing the trailer. They are generally simpler to install and maintain than hydraulic systems and offer adjustable braking force.
- Hydraulic Brakes: These systems use hydraulic pressure, similar to car brakes, to activate the trailer brakes. They require a hydraulic actuator, usually mounted on the trailer tongue, that senses the deceleration of the tow vehicle and applies pressure to the brake lines. Hydraulic brakes offer excellent stopping power, especially for heavier trailers, but are more complex and require careful bleeding to remove air from the lines. Surge brakes are a subset of hydraulic brakes and are self-contained; they don’t require connections to the tow vehicle’s braking system, relying solely on the inertia of the trailer pushing against the tow ball during deceleration.
Electric Brake Controllers: The Heart of the System
An electric brake controller is the interface between your tow vehicle’s braking system and the electric brakes on your trailer. It senses the braking force applied by the driver and sends a proportional electrical signal to the trailer brakes. Choosing the right brake controller and setting it up correctly are paramount to effective trailer braking. There are two main types:
- Time-Delayed Controllers: These controllers apply the trailer brakes after a pre-set delay, allowing the tow vehicle to start slowing down first. While simpler and often less expensive, they can result in a jerky braking experience.
- Proportional Controllers: These controllers apply the trailer brakes proportionally to the braking force of the tow vehicle. They offer smoother and more controlled braking because they mirror the driver’s braking action. Proportional controllers are generally preferred for their superior performance and safety.
Inspecting and Maintaining Your Trailer Brakes
Regular inspection and maintenance are critical for ensuring your trailer brakes function correctly and safely.
Routine Visual Inspection
Before each trip, conduct a thorough visual inspection, including:
- Checking Brake Linings: Inspect the brake linings for wear and thickness. Replace them if they are worn down to the minimum thickness specified by the manufacturer.
- Inspecting Brake Drums/Rotors: Look for cracks, scoring, or excessive rust. Damaged drums or rotors can significantly reduce braking performance.
- Checking Wiring: Ensure all wiring connections are clean, secure, and free from corrosion. Frayed or damaged wires can cause intermittent brake failure.
- Inspecting Brake Actuator (Hydraulic Systems): Check for leaks, damage, and proper fluid level.
- Testing Breakaway System: The breakaway system is a crucial safety feature that applies the trailer brakes automatically if the trailer becomes detached from the tow vehicle. Test the breakaway system before each trip to ensure it is functioning correctly.
Adjusting Electric Trailer Brakes
Proper adjustment of electric trailer brakes is essential for balanced and effective braking. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Jack up the trailer and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the rubber plug on the brake backing plate to expose the star wheel adjuster.
- Using a brake adjusting tool or a screwdriver, turn the star wheel adjuster to expand the brake shoes until they drag against the drum when you try to rotate the wheel.
- Back off the star wheel adjuster until the wheel rotates freely with a slight drag.
- Repeat this process for all brakes on the trailer.
- Test the brakes by driving the trailer at a low speed and applying the brakes. The trailer brakes should engage smoothly and evenly.
Maintaining Hydraulic Trailer Brakes
Hydraulic trailer brakes require additional maintenance:
- Bleeding the Brakes: Bleed the brakes regularly to remove air from the lines. Air in the hydraulic system can significantly reduce braking performance.
- Checking Fluid Levels: Maintain the proper fluid level in the hydraulic actuator reservoir. Use the correct type of brake fluid as specified by the manufacturer.
- Inspecting Brake Lines: Check for leaks, cracks, or damage to the brake lines. Replace any damaged lines immediately.
Troubleshooting Common Trailer Brake Problems
Identifying and addressing common trailer brake problems promptly can prevent serious safety issues.
Weak or No Brakes
- Cause: Worn brake linings, faulty brake controller, loose wiring connections, air in hydraulic lines.
- Solution: Replace worn brake linings, check and adjust brake controller settings, clean and tighten wiring connections, bleed hydraulic brakes.
Uneven Braking
- Cause: Improperly adjusted brakes, contaminated brake linings, damaged brake drums or rotors.
- Solution: Adjust brakes properly, replace contaminated brake linings, replace damaged drums or rotors.
Brakes Lock Up
- Cause: Over-adjusted brakes, faulty brake controller, short circuit in wiring.
- Solution: Back off brake adjustment, adjust brake controller settings, inspect and repair wiring.
Brake Controller Displaying Errors
- Cause: Faulty wiring, improper grounding, short circuit, incompatible trailer brakes.
- Solution: Check wiring and grounding, inspect for short circuits, ensure trailer brakes are compatible with the brake controller.
FAQs About Trailer Brakes
FAQ 1: How often should I inspect my trailer brakes?
You should conduct a visual inspection before every trip. A more thorough inspection, including removing the brake drums and checking the linings, should be performed at least annually, or more frequently if you tow frequently or in harsh conditions.
FAQ 2: What type of brake controller is best for my trailer?
A proportional brake controller is generally recommended for its smoother and more responsive braking performance. However, a time-delayed controller may be suitable for lighter trailers or infrequent towing. Consider the weight of your trailer and your towing frequency when making your decision.
FAQ 3: How do I know if my brake controller is properly adjusted?
The brake controller should be adjusted so that the trailer brakes engage smoothly and evenly without locking up. Start with a low setting and gradually increase it until you feel the trailer assisting the tow vehicle in stopping. If the trailer brakes are locking up, reduce the setting.
FAQ 4: Can I replace my electric drum brakes with disc brakes?
Yes, converting to disc brakes offers improved stopping power, better heat dissipation, and reduced maintenance. However, it requires replacing the entire braking system, including the hubs, rotors, calipers, and brake lines. Consult with a qualified mechanic to ensure proper installation and compatibility.
FAQ 5: What is the purpose of the breakaway system?
The breakaway system is a critical safety feature that automatically applies the trailer brakes if the trailer becomes detached from the tow vehicle. It consists of a cable attached to the tow vehicle and a switch on the trailer. If the trailer separates, the cable pulls the switch, activating the trailer brakes.
FAQ 6: How do I test the breakaway system?
To test the breakaway system, disconnect the breakaway cable from the tow vehicle and pull the pin. The trailer brakes should engage immediately. Ensure the trailer is on a level surface and properly chocked to prevent it from rolling when the brakes are applied.
FAQ 7: What type of brake fluid should I use in my hydraulic trailer brakes?
Use the type of brake fluid recommended by the trailer manufacturer. Consult your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for specific recommendations. Mixing different types of brake fluid can damage the brake system.
FAQ 8: How often should I bleed my hydraulic trailer brakes?
Bleed your hydraulic trailer brakes at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice spongy brakes or a reduction in braking performance. Air in the hydraulic lines can significantly reduce braking effectiveness.
FAQ 9: What are the signs of worn brake linings?
Signs of worn brake linings include reduced braking performance, squealing or grinding noises, and excessive brake dust. Inspect the brake linings regularly and replace them when they are worn down to the minimum thickness specified by the manufacturer.
FAQ 10: Can I upgrade my trailer brakes for increased stopping power?
Yes, upgrading to larger brakes or disc brakes can significantly increase stopping power. Consult with a qualified mechanic to determine the best upgrade options for your trailer.
FAQ 11: What is the difference between surge brakes and electric over hydraulic brakes?
Surge brakes are a type of hydraulic brake that are self-contained and don’t require connections to the tow vehicle’s braking system. Electric over hydraulic brakes use an electric brake controller in the tow vehicle to activate a hydraulic pump on the trailer, providing more precise control over the braking force.
FAQ 12: How do I properly store my trailer to prevent brake problems?
When storing your trailer, release the parking brake to prevent the brake shoes from sticking to the drums. Protect the brakes from moisture and corrosion by covering them with a tarp or storing the trailer in a dry location. Periodically rotate the wheels to prevent flat spots on the tires and to keep the brake components lubricated.
By understanding and implementing these guidelines, you can ensure your trailer brakes are functioning optimally, providing a safe and enjoyable towing experience. Always prioritize safety and consult with a qualified mechanic if you have any questions or concerns about your trailer brakes.