For the weekend warrior and those new to hauling, the idea of upgrading your trailer braking system may never have occurred to you. Like the features that came on your car ‘from the factory’ you may have assumed your trailer has what it needs. However there are many advantages to upgrading your trailer brake system, and changing it out is a relatively simple process.
Why Hydraulic Surge Brakes May Not Be Enough
If you have hydraulic surge brakes, you’ll have no electrical/hydraulic connections to your car. A self-contained, passive system, hydraulic surge brakes kick-in based on the natural momentum of your vehicle. When your car slows down and your trailer pushes into your vehicle, the brakes engage – albeit after a split second delay that increases your stopping distance. If your trailer is swaying, separately engaging the braking system is not possible.
There are Many Benefits of Upgrading to an Electric Trailer Brake System
- Added braking control.
As is obvious from the above description of hydraulic trailer brakes, electric trailer brake systems improve brake reaction time and decrease the distance necessary to bring your heavy hauler to a complete stop. Brake pressure is applied to the trailer first, controlled by the pedal pressure in your car, providing a braking action that is safer for quick stops and driving downhill. - Simple operation.
Electric systems are also, surprisingly for many, more simple and user-friendly than surge brake systems. Engaged with the help of electromagnets, when properly adjusted, a quick correction to an in-cabin electric brake controller can apply the small amount of force necessary to stop your trailer from swaying. A handy tool for driving in high winds, passing large tractor-trailers, and descending hills, indeed. - Less maintenance.
The maintenance needs of electric brakes are also far simpler than those of hydraulic brakes, whose components and assemblies must be constantly guarded against corrosion and closely inspected for wear. - Reduced parts cost.
Costs for electric trailer brake assembly replacement parts are, on average, 30% less than those for hydraulic systems. - Easy upgrade.
Trucks, SUVs, RVs and other vehicles constructed since the mid 90’s are already setup to work with an electronic trailer brake controller, with a factory-ready ‘quick-plug’ under the dash for ease of connection. In fact, pickup trucks constructed within the last 5-years typically have a brake controller built into the dash, requiring no installation whatsoever.
Is your braking system enough to keep your cargo and fellow roadside passengers safe? Ainsworth Trailer Repair professionals have the knowledge and experience to keep your rig safely on the road. Contact us to learn more about the ease and low-cost of upgrading your trailer brake system today.
