sputnik
28.05.2021 10:03:06
Most trailer brake controllers come with a manual activation button. This allows you to activate the trailer brakes whenever desired, without applying the vehicle brakes. here
See full version: How to Use a Trailer Brake Controller
Most trailer brake controllers come with a manual activation button. This allows you to activate the trailer brakes whenever desired, without applying the vehicle brakes. here
With your trailer coupled to your vehicle, the first step when towing with a brake controller is to make sure the trailer wiring harness is plugged into your vehicle. A brake controller requires power from the vehicle and a connection to the trailer brakes for proper towing.
Some brake controllers come with personal settings that can be adjusted to your preference, such as the angle of the interface, the brightness of the screen and even the location of the brake controller itself. more
A time-delay brake controller operates on very simple electrical principles. As soon as the driver presses the brake pedal, the time-based brake controller activates the trailer brakes, applying an increasing amount of power, fixed over time. This is called gain.
Maximum output is the maximum amount of power the brake controller will apply to the trailer brakes. You will need to set this level and adjust it depending on the load size. more
I've put electric brakes on my last two boat trailers and would never consider going back to surge brakes. For all the above reasons and I like to be able to apply the trailer brakes independantly of the tow vehicle in some cases. Oh, I sure don't miss that clunk, clunk, clunk of the surge brakes when I apply the brakes in my tow vehicle. If you install electric brakes, be sure to also install a break away switch and battery. They have some neat packages available now that are self contained and very simple to install.
I have been kicking around the idea of trailer brakes on my boat trailer. In reality, i will not need them for a while. I need a duramax and a 5th wheel to complete my little plan too. That is a little ways off since i have to finish the basement before anymore toys are purchased (per the boss) [links]
Re: Adding electric brakes to boat trailer. [links]
Re: Adding electric brakes to boat trailer.
Yes -- boat trailers can utilize electric brakes. Like the hydraulic counterparts, rust and corrosion is a problem on any brake system. The electrical components are potted so electrical issues are not a problem. It is a simple system and parts are easy to change if necessary.
Re: Adding electric brakes to boat trailer.
If you own a Felling Trailer with Hydraulic Surge Brakes, you may be wondering what the advantage would be to upgrading your brake system to electric brakes, and if it is even possible. There are many advantages to installing an electric brake system on your trailer, and changing out the system is relatively simple (Read How to Change a Trailer Equipped with Hydraulic Surge brakes to an Electric Brake system).
In contrast, Surge Brakes are hydraulic and use the trailer’s natural momentum to actuate the brakes. When you step on the brake in your tow vehicle and slow down, the trailer pushes against the hitch and presses a hydraulic cylinder. The more you slow down the vehicle, the more pressure on the trailer brakes. When they are adjusted properly, surge brakes are smooth and easy to work with. The downside is that you cannot separately actuate the trailer brakes if the trailer is swaying. [links]
Electric Brakes provide additional ease of use and additional braking control. Electric brakes are more simple than surge brakes, but they require a brake controller in the cabin of the tow vehicle. Electric brakes use electromagnets to actuate the drum brakes, and you control the electricity to the brakes with the brake controller and the brake light circuit on your vehicle. Electric brakes work very well when adjusted properly, and you can also reach over with your hand and use the brake controller to apply a small amount of braking force if the trailer begins swaying. That’s handy when descending hills, in high winds, and when you’re being passed by large 18-wheelers. [links]
Do you have more questions about Hydraulic Surge Brakes, Electric Brakes, or other Felling Trailers products? Contact us at 1-888-335-5464 or fill out this simple form so we can help.
Re: Adding electric brakes to boat trailer.
Just wanted to see what your thoughts were on adding brakes. I have a single axle trailer. legally i do not need brakes. I thought they would be a nice addition while towing. I know hydraulic disc surge brakes would be the best. BUT i have fabricated a swing away tongue and going hydraulic, i would have to buy another swing away kit and fab it to the new actuator. But i wanted to see what you thought about going with electric. I have never pulled a trailer with brakes. but i figure some is better than none.
Before double towing, do "double check" the towing laws in your region (and visiting region). Some regions allow double trailer towing but end / end distance needs to be under certain amount of feet.