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RV Electronics

Last updated on: December 9, 2021

The 12 Best Trailer Brake Controllers To Buy in 2022

by Chris Coleman

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If you need to tow a heavy trailer with your truck or SUV, then there are a number of devices and accessories you must equip for your towing setup for safe towing on public roads. Among them, an absolutely crucial towing device is a trailer brake controller. Its role is to automatically apply the brakes in your trailer, so that both the trailer and the tow vehicle slow down or stop on their own at the appropriate rates for optimal stopping performance, especially in emergency situations or in inclement weather and bad road conditions. It is an essential part of your towing arsenal. Having the best trailer brake controller installed is crucial to the safety of your vehicles, you and all passengers onboard.

While the general working mechanisms of the different types of trailer brake controllers are easy to understand, how to select the best trailer brake controller for different towing tasks based on a number of technical criteria as well as how to install and set up the unit for optimal braking performance might be more complicated. But worry not, as you have all the crucial information you need to make an informed buying decision. 

In addition to our handpicked list of the best trailer brake controllers on the market with in-depth reviews, you will learn how these devices work, why you must have them installed, the types of controllers, important buying criteria, step-by-step instructions on installation, mounting and adjusting the settings of the brake controller for proper operation, a list of prestigious manufacturers and answers to frequently asked questions regarding trailer brake controller and trailer electric brakes.

Comparison Chart of Best Trailer Brake Controllers

What is a trailer brake controller, how does a trailer brake controller work, benefits of trailer brake controllers, types of trailer brake controllers , 1. tekonsha 90195 p3 electronic brake control – best of the best , 2. tekonsha 90160 electronic brake control – editor’s choice , 3. curt 51110 electric trailer brake controller – editor’s choice, 4. reese towpower 8508211 brake control, 5. reese towpower 74377 pod brake control, 6. reese 74642 compact brake control, 7. draw-tite 20191 i-stop iq electronic brake control, 8. curt 51140 triflex electric trailer brake controller, 9. hopkins 47297 insight brake control, 10. hayes 81760 engage digital time based brake controller, 11. tekonsha 9030 voyager electronic brake control, 12. tekonsha 90885 electronic brake control, electric vs. hydraulic braking, number of axles , built-in monitor for monitoring your system, tire safety, top brands of trailer brake controllers, installation and mounting, adjusting the settings of a trailer brake controller, how to set up a trailer brake controller: step by step, testing a trailer brake controller , 1. does a camper need a trailer brake controller, 2. can you tow a trailer with electric brakes without a controller, 3. which is better: a timed or a proportional brake controller, 4. how much does a trailer brake controller cost, 5. what is the average cost to install a brake controller , 6. how long would a brake controller for trailers last, 7. what is the best setting for a trailer brake controller, 8. how do you reset a trailer brake controller, 9. how do i calibrate a trailer brake controller, 10. why does my trailer brake controller stay on, 11. how do you turn off a trailer brake controller, 12. how do i tell if the brake controller is bad, 13. how do you test a trailer brake controller, 14. does a brake controller know if a trailer is connected, 15. how do i know if my electric trailer brakes are working , trailer brake controller basics.

Electric Brakes on Your Trailer

Travel trailers and fifth-wheels are typically equipped with electric brakes installed on tandem axle models. Another type of braking system more commonly installed on luxury trailers is the electric over hydraulic braking system.

When you press on the brake pedal in your towing truck, electric current is sent from the tow vehicle back to each wheel assembly in the trailer through an electromagnet. The electromagnetic forces the trailer brake pads to press onto the trailer’s brake drums, and the generated friction between these two parts is what slows down your trailer or brings it to a full stop. 

But why do you need to know this? Because when your trailer has an electric or  electric over hydraulic braking system, you won’t be able to operate your trailer brakes without installing a brake controller first, which is mounted in your tow vehicle. This is also likely required by law in your state to ensure safe towing operations.

Trailer Brake Controllers

Brake controllers for trailers are devices purposely engineered for trailers that incorporate electric braking or electric over hydraulic (EOH) braking systems. Thus these controllers are also called electric trailer brake controllers. 

When you are towing a heavy, fully loaded trailer, effective stopping is a much more tricky task compared to having to stop your towing truck only. Without the brake controller in place, you will need to add extra pressure on your towing vehicle’s brakes in order to account for the extra load in your trailer. So in a towing setup, the tow vehicle’s brakes will do most of the job, which means premature wear and tear to the brakes and costly repairs. This is where an electric brake controller comes into play.

Put simply, the brake controller connect your trailer’s brakes to the main brakes in your towing vehicle so that you can control the trailer’s brakes with the tow vehicle’s brakes. So both vehicles in the towing setup slow down on their own at the appropriate rates, instead of either one of the two having to be responsible for most of the stopping forces, which can be dangerous in emergency situations or in bad roads and/or bad weather conditions. And what you get is safer, better stopping performance, especially in the case of an emergency.

In use, the brake controllers of trailers continuously monitor the braking system of towing vehicles. They detect the amount of force you apply on the brake pedal in your tow vehicle, then automatically engage the brakes on your trailer accordingly to let the trailer slow down on its own. 

The brake controller does this by sending electricity to the trailer brakes through the trailer plug. To control how varied the braking on the trailer is, the brake controller will increase or decrease the voltage supplied to the trailer brakes. The higher the voltage, the more power the brakes will use, and the harder they will stop the trailer. 

Also, you’ll need to set up your controller after installation. The brake controller setting will dictate how much braking power will be transferred by the brake pedal and applied to the brakes on the trailer for safe, effective braking performance. 

What all these mean is that the trailer is not relying on the tow vehicle to stop, thus you end up needing to apply less force to your tow vehicle’s brakes. This decreases your stopping distance, puts less wear and tear on your tow vehicle’s brakes, as well as creating a smoother and safer braking all round.

A digital brake controller can be set to automatically override the existing setting, giving you maximum braking power in the event of an emergency. Most brake controllers will also have a finger trigger that allows you to activate the brakes with the pull of a lever. This is how you test the brakes to make sure they are working when you first drive away. 

Who is it for?

When you look at the three-digit price tag of the best trailer brake controllers on the market, you might be tempted to hit the road without it. However, if your trailer has electric brakes or an electric over hydraulic system, they will not work without a brake controller. If your trailer is equipped with electric brakes, you will always need to install a brake controller before beginning any towing task. 

Do note that the opposite is also true. A trailer brake controller will not work with older-style trailers that don’t have electronic control. The device only operates on a trailer with electric or electric-over-hydraulic brakes.

Many new trucks and vehicles that are designed to tow heavy trailers come with factory-installed brake controllers, so you won’t need to install one. Otherwise, if your truck does not have a built-in controller, you will need to have one installed before hitting the road.  

As a general rule, for safe towing, you should have a trailer brake controller installed if you need to tow any load exceeding 1,650 pounds or 750 kg. 

Although not mandatory under the law everywhere, an increasing number of US states are requiring the installation of trailer brake controllers. Due to the necessity of a controller in heavy towing tasks, most states in the United States require by law that you have a brake controller installed if your trailer weighs over 3,000 pounds when fully loaded or the trailer gross weight exceeds 40% of the tow vehicle’s gross weight. 

Since it’s more likely than not that except for the tiny teardrop trailers and the smallest travel trailer models, most fifth wheels and travel trailers you’d be towing usually double to triple the weight of the towing truck, so having a trailer brake controller installed is an absolute must.  

Safety : Losing control of ladened trailers in busy traffic is dangerous and may prove fatal. By outfitting your rig with an electric trailer brake controller , you could avoid various accidents in which the trailers move independently with the towing vehicles.

Save money on repairs to the braking system : Without a brake controller for trailers around, you must rely solely on towing vehicles to provide the necessary braking force for the entire setup. That is going to put significant wear and tear on the braking system of your tow vehicle over time, particularly the brake pads, which means trips to the repair shop and cumbersome repairs to keep your tow vehicle in working order. It also means less safety while towing, since prematurely worn brake pads would cause brake fade. 

Value for money: Compared to amounts of money that go into repairing trailers after traffic accidents and swapping damaged braking systems, a trailer brake controller costs little. Hence, in the case that you like to save some bucks in the long run, you should consider investing in a brake controller for trailers. 

Ability to monitor your towing setup: The best trailer brake controllers will typically come with a user-friendly LED display. It will  feature advanced diagnostics that allow you to monitor the whole towing setup while you’re driving, including updates on the trailer braking and cargo.

Numerous brake controllers exist but models on today’s market could be split into two types: time-delayed and proportional.

They are very different, but there are a few similarities. Firstly, the wiring for installation is identical. Secondly, you can adjust the maximum braking power depending on the trailer gross weight. Also, both types of trailer brake controllers allow you to manually override trailer brakes’ signal. 

Time-Delayed Brake Controllers

As the name indicates, time-delayed brake controllers have a delay between the depressing of brake pedals in towing vehicles and the activation of trailer brakes. Depending on the requirement, it’s possible to change the delay of models of the type in the sync setting. Thanks to the simplicity of their design, time-delayed brake controllers boast quick installation processes. That said, they are more complicated to set-up and configure after installing, and cause more wear-and-tear to the tow vehicle’s brakes due to the single pressure setting.

Proportional Brake Controllers

Packing built-in inertia-based sensors, proportional brake controllers consistently supervise the speed of your rig on the road, sense the intensity of the tow vehicle’s deceleration and apply the right amount of force to the trailer brakes to match. The end goal is to enable the tow vehicle and the trailer to slow down at the same rate and bring your towing setups to a smooth stop. 

This working mechanism means that compared to the simple time-delayed brake controller, a proportional controller provides a more progressive, gradual braking performance and under abrupt, heavy braking situations, it would provide you more safety. They also ensure even wear between your trailer brakes and tow vehicle brakes. For this reason, the best proportional brake controller on the market are often reviewed by campers and experts alike as the best electric brake controller models for the money. They are more expensive, but justifiably so.

That said, the best brake controller for the money should be the one most suitable for your towing needs. If you often perform towing for your job, a proportional controller would definitely be the better choice and it will be worth your investment. On the other hand, if you only tow every now and then, a time-delayed brake controller should be adequate.

Best Trailer Brake Controller Reviews & Recommendation

Without further ado, let’s dive into our delicious handpicked list of the trailer brake controller

Models on the market today, including both of the proportional and time-delayed types.  They are all user-friendly, functional and durable brake controllers for trailers based on their well-rounded specifications and features, as well as brake controller reviews by buyers and experts.

Each comes with an in-depth review that explains what sets them apart, so that you can easily compare among models and pick out the one that best suit your towing needs.

Why This Is The Best:

Possessing a small build, Tekonsha 90195 occupies negligible amounts of space on the dashboard of towing vehicles in use. In addition to that, the Tekonsha brake controller is designed with a quick disconnect feature so people may swiftly remove it when the need arises. As a result, Tekonsha 90195 electronic brake control tends to be prized by those that like to have an organized and non-clustered dashboard. It’s worth pointing out that Tekonsha 90195 is transferable between automobiles which leads to terrific flexibility in towing operations.

With an easy-to-read display, Tekonsha 90195 lets users manage the trailer brakes and associated systems in a convenient manner. Depending on individual liking, the brightness, contrast and language of the display of the brake controller from Tekonsha could also be changed in no time. Hence, adapting Tekonsha 90195 to particular demands is a walk in the park and there is no need for mechanics. Besides that, this brake controller is able to handle up to four axles at the same time so it’s a wonderful match for typical towing setups. 

One interesting thing about Tekonsha 90195 is that it carries a rotary manual override lever that applies the brakes of your trailers one pushed. The taillights of your trailers would light up as you push level too to warn people that travel behind you. In the case that you value traffic safety, Tekonsha 90195 is the best trailer brake controller on the market for you. 

• Space-saving 
• Dependable and reliable 
• A bit pricey 
• Buttons of some units get stuck now and then 

Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:

Engineered to be a plug-and-play model, Tekonsha Primus IQ 90160 could be put to use as soon as it’s out of the packaging. Upon purchase, Tekonsha 90160 is accompanied by snap-in dash mounting so securing it to the dashboard is a cakewalk. Thus, the brake controller made by Tekonsha is the best trailer brake controlle r for people that lack the patience for models with drag-out installations. Moreover, since Tekonsha 90160 incorporates a boost feature, it’s capable of applying extra braking power for heavy trailers. 

In the course of operation, the brake controller from Tekonsha frequently runs self-diagnostics to detect signs of potential problems. The moment it notices something odd, Tekonsha 90160 is going to send warnings to the users via its LED display. Because of that, with Tekonsha 90160 onboard, you should have no trouble supervising the brakes of your towing setup. The brake controller of Tekonsha works proportionally as well so it’s compatible with a wide range of arrangements nowadays. 

As proof of confidence, Tekonsha willingly offers everyone that buys its brake controller a lifetime warranty that covers manufacturing defects. Naturally, Tekonsha 90160 receives a shower of praise for its tip-top post-purchase support. 

• Long-lasting 
• Slim and sleek 
• Intuitive installation 
• Quality control could use some work 
• Users complain about short wires 

Adaptable and versatile, 51110 of Curt could provide excellent control over the brakes of towing setups in an assortment of conditions. Boasting customizable output, the brake controller from Curt allows people to modify braking force at any time without much difficulty. Also, through the sync setting of 51110, it’s possible to determine how aggressive the brakes of trailers kick into action which is a big plus. Needless to say, Curt 51110 is held in high esteem by those that want to have optimal breaking in towing operations. 

Being created with automatic leveling, 51110 needs no tuning during installation so the setup process rarely takes long to wrap up. Since the brake controller made by Curt packs splendid compatibility, it operates well alongside cruise control, anti-lock brakes, PWM systems and alike too. That is why adding 51110 of Curt to the average rigs is essentially a piece of cake. Lastly, the absence of internal moving parts means 51110 would run reliably for years and that makes it the best trailer brake controller for routine towing. 

In terms of interface, 51110 of Curt integrates a flush LED display that keeps users up-to-date about trailer brakes. By grabbing the Curt brake controller, you could check up on the brakes of your trailers with a glance and quickly respond to unexpected developments. 

• Inexpensive 
• Light and compact 
• Setup process is child’s play 
• Sensitivity is kind of high 
• Reports of units arriving used appear occasionally 

No products found.

Why We Love It:

So you need a brake controller that could manage multiple brakes at the same time? In that case, there is a good chance that you would come to like Reese 8508211. With the ability to simultaneously handle between one and four axles, 8508211 permits you to manage from two to eight brakes. Furthermore, the brake controller made by Reese is assembled with a built-in diagnostics feature so when things seem wrong, you should be immediately informed. 

Similar to its contemporaries, Reese 8508211 is equipped with a boost function that delivers more initial braking in times of need. As a result, the brake controller from Reese works like a charm whether you tow light or heavy-loaded trailers. About installation, 8508211 is a plug-in model that requires moments to set up and the inclusion of user-friendly push-button control facilitates the programming. With reverse battery protection, Reese 8508211 remains uncompromised even if you happen to mess up the polarity as you install it. 

As it comes to the market at a reasonable price, the brake controller of Reese suits plenty of shopping budgets. For those who have rather tight wallets but still wish to get something decent, 8508211 is the best trailer brake controller . 

• Simple to install 
• Fantastic flexibility 
• Tech support still leaves something to be desired 
• A number of units reach the users in an inoperable state 

Being a proportional model that could bring towing setups to a smooth stop on the road, Reese 74377 earns numerous compliments from trailer brake controller reviews . With an up-front user interface, the brake controller from Reese lets people access the control no matter the orientation. Additionally, 74377 possesses a powered LED light indicator so users should be able to tell whether it’s up and running. Hence, once it comes to convenience, 74377 of Reese is the best electric brake controller available for purchase on the market. 

Purposely made to withstand a diversity of abuses, 74377 could take on virtually everything that you throw at it in use. That is why if you pick up the brake controller made by Reese, it’s going to be a while before you need a replacement. On arrival, Reese 74377 also comes with installation hardware so its setup process only lasts a couple of minutes and you don’t need specialized tools. When 74377 is positioned and secured in the towing vehicles, it would manage up to four axles which equal eight brakes.

To reassure users, Reese backs its trailer brake controller with a five-year manufacturer warranty. If your 74377 fail due to defects within the warranty period, you may claim yourself a replacement free of charge, 

• Low-priced 
• Installation is no-nonsense 
• Missing hardware is noted 
• Users detect sporadic interruptions in several units 

Put together with an emphasis on utility, Reese 74642 is capable of meeting the demands of a lot of towing operations. Containing no moving part on the inside, the reliability of 74642 is superior to that of ordinary brake controllers for trailers. Moreover, the brake controller of Reese could even level on its own so there is no need for manual leveling. Because of that, Reese 74642 is popular among those that have a schedule to keep and lack the time to fine-tune brake controllers to perfection.

The brake controller of Reese is a plug-and-play model, therefore, its setup process is both uncomplicated and brief. After the installation finishes, it’s possible for owners of 74642 to begin adjusting the braking force via the slide adjustment. In the course of operation, Reese 74642 fluidly handles two axles at the same time and that allows people to manipulate up to four brakes simultaneously. Finally, if you have other systems set up on your trailers, it’s noteworthy that the  Reese brake controller is compatible with anti-lock braking.

Since 74642 of Reese is inexpensive, squeezing it into the spending plan is child’s play. About post-purchase support, the brake controller made by Reese is backed with a five-year manufacturer warranty that brings much-needed peace of mind.  

• Reasonable price 
• Endurance is top-notch 
• Shipping is less than ideal 
• People complain about receiving dead units 

Loaded with features and functions, Draw-Tite I-Stop (20191) could be adapted to countless setups. Thanks to the self-diagnostics, owners of the brake trailer made by Draw-Tite would immediately receive notifications when issues occur out of the blue. The presence of a flush display on I-Stop (20191) makes it a breeze to check up on readings as well. That is why Draw-Tite I-Stop (20191) is prized by those who hit the road year-round and have to deal with variable lighting conditions.  

Packing a combination of removable electrical connectors and snap-in mounting, I-Stop (20191) proves to be a cinch to install and remove at short notice. Hence, many people that want to create a versatile dashboard layout regard the Draw-Tite brake trailer as the best brake controller for the money . While I-Stop (20191) of Draw-Tite appears kind of expensive compared to market models, its values justify its price tag. If you buy I-Stop (20191), Draw-Tite is going to provide you with a lifetime manufacturer warranty which speaks volumes. 

About maintenance, Draw-Tite I-Stop (20191) needs insignificant attention from users throughout its entire lifespan. If you like to reduce the amounts of time that go to the maintenance of towing accessories then I-Stop (20191) is exactly what you need. 

• Accurate readings 
• Impressive handling 
• Uncomplicated maintenance 
• Steep price 
• Braking power deviate from time to time 

Carrying a modern-day design that is built to last, CURT 51140 never fails to please in the course of operation. With an advanced triple-axis accelerometer, 51140 consistently detects motion on three planes and delivers necessary braking power for smooth stopping. Furthermore, featuring optional levels of sensitivity, the CURT brake controller permits users to apply adjustment based on loads, road conditions,… As a result, with 51140 of CURT, people could take part in a wide range of towing operations with relative ease. 

Assembled with automatic leveling and calibration, the brake controller made by CURT eliminates the hassle of fine-tuning so the setup process is fairly swift. The LED display of 51140 shows power changes in precise increments too, thus, adapting it to specific arrangements is no sweat. About pairing, CURT 51140 is compatible with anti-brake, cruise control, ABS, PWM and so on. Therefore, you should have an easy time matching the brake controller of CURT to systems you have on your rig. 

For protection, 51140 of CURT is well-secured against reverse-polarity as well as short-circuit. Unsurprisingly, those that like to travel with confidence and care about safety consider the CURT brake controller as the best brake controller for travel trailer . 

• Terrific safety 
• Quick installation 
• Outstanding customizability 
• Battery drain is kind of high 
• A couple of units come with unresponsive controls

Despite its plain appearance, Hopkins InSIGHT (47297) is still able to meet the expectations of its users in lots of situations. Consisting of separate components, the brake controller of Hopkins could be mounted virtually anywhere that people want in towing vehicles. That is why the odds of InSIGHT (47297) getting into the way during the average towing operations tend to be low. Also, the installation of Hopkins InSIGHT (47297) involves neither tool nor drilling which means installation is a walk in the park.

Owing to the digital display, InSIGHT (47297) makes managing the brakes of trailers on the road around the clock a snap. A vertical manual slide is present too and that helps people engage all the trailer brakes in case of emergency. Hence, with the brake controller from Hopkins, bringing towing setups to a stop is going to be child’s play. Besides that, since InSIGHT (47297) is capable of controlling four axles with eight brakes at once, it works superbly in an assortment of today’s arrangements.

As for affordability, InSIGHT (47297) of Hopkins comes at a price that people could accept so its purchase would have trifling impacts on your upcoming spendings. On arrival, the brake controller made by Hopkins is backed with a lifetime warranty so you have something to count on when things go south. 

• Lightweight
• Second to none adaptability 
• Quality control should be overhauled 
• People report oscillations in braking power 

Functional and practical, Hayes 81760 often gives a good account of itself in towing operations while requiring minimal care from users. Engineered with an intuitive display that shows current, voltage and percent of power, 81760 allows people to maintain control over their towing setup at any time. Moreover, possessing innovative troubleshooting, the brake controller made by Hayes significantly facilitates the process of detecting and addressing operational problems. Because of that, Hayes 81760 is well-received by those that place convenience above all else. 

Equipped with time-based circuitry, the brake controller from Hayes provides increasing current to trailer brakes as time passes by. Thus, the longer you depress the brake pedal with 81760 installed on your rig, the more braking power you would get for your entire towing setups. For installation, 81760 of Hayes is made to mount in any direction and at any angle. Naturally, the brake controller of Hayes is well-suited for towing vehicles that happen to come with somewhat steep dashboards. 

Normally, Hayes 81760 manages the brakes of trailers on its own based on the preset parameters that users could readily adjust. However, in times of need, owners of 81760 have the option of applying trailer brakes by themselves via the manual lever. Upon the activation of manual lever, the stoplights of towing vehicles as well as towed trailers should start to illuminate. 

• Bright display 
• Easy to set up 
• Mediocre delivery service 
• Connector is not universally compatible 

Created with advanced electronics, Voyager (9030) of Tekonsha excels at minimizing false braking on the road which provides a fluid experience. When people hit the brake pedal, the LED light indicator of the brake controller from Tekonsha also changes from green to red to indicate power. In addition, Voyager (9030) packs a broad control range so users may optimize braking output for towing setups as they like. That is why Tekonsha Voyager (9030) is sought after by those who wish to have a firm grasp on trailer brakes. 

Thanks to the integration of the plug-and-play feature, Voyager (9030) could be installed in a blink of an eye. Interestingly, being fashioned with first-class compatibility, the brake controller made by Tekonsha would work alongside other electrical systems without causing interference to their operation. Hence, Tekonsha Voyager (9030) is capable of pairing with a diversity of trailers in towing operations. Aside from that, with a low profile, Voyager (9030) occupies insignificant space on the dashboard and that earns it good scores in trailer brake controller reviews . 

As a budget-friendly model, Tekonsha Voyager (9030) fits the wallet of people who don’t like to spend big bucks. Tekonsha back its brake controllers for trailers with a reassuring five-year manufacturer warranty that put users at ease too. 

• Fast shipping 
• Wonderful versatility 
• Owner’s manual is poorly-written 
• Missing hardware is reported on occasions 

Boasting outstanding responsiveness, Tekonsha P2 (90885) would activate the brakes of towed trailers as soon as people depress the brake pedal. Therefore, with P2 (90885) onboard, the braking system of towing vehicles is going to suffer less wear and tear over time. Furthermore, the Tekonsha brake controller carries a boost feature that permits allocations of additional power to braking so it’s able to manage variable loads. Depending on the requirements, you could set the boost of Tekonsha P2 (90885) for automatic activation or turn it on manually. 

The brake controller of Tekonsha is assembled with 360-degree rotation so regardless of orientation, the top-mounted display remains visible. Since P2 (90885) level on its own in the course of operation, there is no need to worry about tuning it as you navigate terrains too. Owing to continuous diagnostics, Tekonsha P2 (90885) would detect potential problems in towing setups and communicate them to users before they have a chance to manifest. As a result, compared to classic brake controllers, the brake controller from Tekonsha is unmatched in terms of situational awareness.  

Aside from installation hardware, P2 (90885) of Tekonsha is accompanied by a very detailed owner’s manual on arrival so its setup process rarely takes long. As for post-purchase support, Tekonsha backs its brake controller with a lifetime manufacturer warranty. 

• High accuracy
• Small build 
• A bit expensive 
• Certain units show up without enough hardware 

Trailer Brake Controller: Important Buying Criteria

Trailer brake controllers come in two types, as discussed above, with a variety of added features for optimal performance and available at widely varying price points, so there’s something for every camper or every towing job. Of course, if you have a fixed budget or if you only tow light weights occasionally, you might compromise on some aspects to get the most suitable one for your needs. In any case, to make an informed and wise decision, you need to consider all of the criteria below when assessing different models. 

While some trailers use a hydraulic braking system which is often called electric over hydraulic systems, trailer brakes are most commonly electric brakes, since they are cheaper to produce still offering an excellent response time. It’s important to know which type your trailer has before purchasing a brake controller, as the brake controller needs to communicate with the trailer’s braking system properly for optimal braking performance. An electric over hydraulic braking system is more commonly found in high-end trailers.  

That said, do not just readily assume that your trailer has an electric brake. Brake controlling is a delicate task and requires precision, so always check what system your trailer has, and whether the particular brake controller unit you’re eyeing is compatible with what you have. This is because not all brake controllers today can work with both electric braking systems and hydraulic braking systems.

Brake controllers come designed to control a set number of axles, so you’ll need to know how many your trailer has in order to ensure that the model you buy delivers optimum performance. In case you don’t know, most trailer brake controllers on the market nowadays could control up to eight wheels across four axles. The minority might only control six wheels across three axles, or in rarer cases only four wheels across two axles.

A top-rated trailer brake controller should have a convenient monitor that allows you to easily monitor the whole towing setup while you’re driving. A built-in digital display shows important data from the controller, including battery, output current, and brake pad force. It will feature advanced diagnostics that allow you to keep track of what’s going on, including updates on the trailer braking and cargo.

The best models today typically feature a LED monitor, which is reliable, durable, and easy to read. With a monitor in place, it’s recommended that you frequently look at the display monitor to ensure the system is functioning as required.

Manufacturers design their brake controllers for trailers with multiple goals in mind, thus, market models contain a diversity of features. Normally, by reviewing your requirements in towing operations, you would be able to determine for yourself what features you need. Looking at these features would help you further shortlist the best trailer brake controllers for your usual towing needs. 

A number of brake controllers allow users to manipulate the force exerted on brake pads while others could swiftly change between electric and hydraulic braking. 

Most trailer brake controllers today feature a handy manual activation button to activate the trailer brakes whenever needed, such as for correcting minor trailer sway and gradually slowing down on a steep hill, all without you having to apply the brakes of your towing vehicle. 

Many brake controllers will also have what’s called a boost feature. This provides a higher initial braking boost, which is required when the trailer is larger and heavier. It will take some testing to see what level of braking boost is right for your trailer and its load, which should not jam on the brakes too aggressively, but enough boost for the smoothest, most effective stopping power. 

Most brake controllers will also have a finger trigger that allows you to activate the brakes with the pull of a lever. This is how you test the brakes to make sure they are working when you first drive away. 

Since you will install the brake controller on your dashboard, size is an important factor. For example, if you have a small dashboard, you won’t want a large device. To avoid ending up with an oversized model that will make the dashboard cluttered, take the dimension of the spot where you intend to install the trailer brake controller into account. The unit should also be placed in a space that is easy to access and manipulate as needed.

When applying brakes, the condition of the tires significantly affects the outcome which means tire safety is an essential consideration. As a result, to pick up the best trailer brake controller for your rig, you have to prioritize models that keep the tires under control. The best trailer brake controller will control your wheels and prevent them from making sudden, jerky movements. 

Via the owner’s manual, you could gain valuable details about how well certain brake controllers manage the tires of towing setups on the road. Before purchasing a trailer brake controller, make sure it has the appropriate features and mounting options that can better make sure that your tires don’t move in an unsafe manner. 

In towing operations, your rig as well as everything on it should continuously experience vibration that presents tests of endurance. Hence, if you don’t like to replace your brake controller frequently, it’s strongly recommended that you treat durability as one of the priorities. In the usual cases, by examining the construction material of models, you may be able to deduce its structural integrity. Naturally, you need to steer clear of trailer brake controllers that integrate fragile materials with less than ideal average lifespans. 

Trailer brake controllers work with either a 12-volt or a 24-volt system. Before you decide on a particular trailer brake controller, it’s important to know which one yours operates on. Your towing vehicle’s power source must be compatible with the trailer’s brakes or else your brake controller may malfunction, which totally makes its addition to your towing setup meaningless, since it’s supposed to provide you with safer towing operations.

While the unit itself is quite affordable, the installation process is very complicated and is best left to the pros. To have it professionally installed, you can expect to pay in the hundreds, typically close to $300 for labor on models with the most complicated installation procedures.

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $60 and $350 for the controller itself, depending on whether you opt for a timed controller or a proportional controller. While most models fall within this price range, you can also find some models costing less than $60. Anything below $60 is considered to be cheap, might be too cheap if you’re buying insurance for safer towing.

Below $60: Models within this range typically are the time-delay variety or are proportional lacking a boost mode and are more difficult to calibrate. However, on the upside, they are basic and practical. Depending on your towing situation, models in the range give a good account of themselves despite the lack of fancy features. The simplicity of these brake controllers permits them to operate in an assortment of environments.

From $60 To $150: Being middle-class models, trailer brake controllers in the range carry various helpful functions without costing a fortune. Incapable of dropping big bucks on a brake controller but still want something of quality? Then you should consider models that cost between $50 and $100. 

From $150 to $350: Loaded with virtually everything people need in brake controllers, models in the range appear expensive but the values they provide match their price tags. In addition, with fantastic lifespans, such brake controllers could last through plenty of towing operations. If you tow often, especially with heavy loads, this price is well justified, since you’re paying an insurance for your safety as well as your vehicles’. Plus, the best trailer brake controller would allow for less wear and tear on your vehicles’ brakes, saving you money on premature replacements.

Overall, the brand of a model doesn’t dictate its performance entirely. The best trailer brake controller for your set budget should depend on how often you tow and your towing needs. If you come across a brake controller that meets your requirements, feel free to purchase it regardless of its brand. Nonetheless, if you’re not familiar with trailer brake controllers, purchasing the best trailer brake controller that’s highly rated from a major manufacturer would be a good insurance policy. 

Products from prestigious makers would typically have more reviews online by both buyers and experts, thus you have much more information to rely on. Plus, the most trusted household names usually offer better customer service to assist you during the complicated installation and setting up process.

Tekonsha – As a long-established brand, Tekonsha possesses substantial experience in putting together trailer brake controllers. Nowadays, once it comes to dependability and reliability, models made by Tekonsha don’t have many competitors on the market. 

Draw-Tite – Thanks to applications of innovations in production lines, Draw-Tite could introduce solid brake controllers for trailers at reasonable prices. As a result, Draw-Tite models prove popular among those that have limited shopping budgets. 

CURT Group – With an emphasis on convenience, Curt is well-known for designing brake controllers that take moments to install and could be adapted for numerous operations. Needless to say, a lot of people hold Curt and its models in high esteem. 

Reese Towpower- By continuously optimizing its models, Reese keeps its brake controllers for trailers competitive over time. Moreover, since models of Reese have undemanding maintenance, there is no need to give them unique treatment on the road. 

Hopkins Towing Solution – Hopkins Manufacturing Corporation was founded in 1953 and is located in Emporia, Kan. It’s one of the industry’s top leaders in towing electrical products.

How to Use a Trailer Brake Controller

Using a brake controller while towing a trailer involves installing and mounting the controller, calibrating it, adjusting trailer brake gain, adjusting braking sensitivity, adjusting a few personal settings, then manually activating the trailer brakes and testing if the brake controller works properly. If it doesn’t upon testing, you will find the steps for troubleshooting at the end of this section.

Most trailer brake controllers will come with a mounting bracket and all necessary hardware included in the kit. Most trailer brake controllers would typically slide, sometimes screw, into this bracket, which is most conveniently screwed into the bottom of your dash for easy monitoring.

If you opt for a proportional trailer brake controller, make sure you mount it the right way. If they aren’t mounted level or are mounted upside down, you can mess up the accelerometer.

That said, most controller kits won’t include a wiring harness, which must be purchased separately. Make sure you read the product manual to choose the right wiring harness for your vehicle. The wiring harness will plug into the controller unit and a port underneath the dashboard. In many trucks and full-sized SUVs, you only need to plug the wiring harness into the port to complete the simple installation process. The port’s location can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, so you should either locate it by consulting your owner’s manual or look for help online, particularly in auto forums or blogs.

If your vehicle is not a truck or an SUV, that is if it is not equipped for towing, you’ll have to run wires linking the trailer brakes, ground, vehicle brakes and battery power. This wiring process is much more complicated, and it’s recommended that you seek professional service. If you’re inclined to do it yourself, seek out step-by-step wiring guides online to ease your task.

One common question by DIY-ers is which axle should trailer brakes be on. Typically trailers will carry more of their weight on the front, as this is the rule of thumb in distributing cargo weight for less side-to-side swaying. This means while braking, the front axle would most likely carry more weight, thus you would want to put the brakes on the front axle.

The job of the brake controller is to send the appropriate amount of electricity to the trailer’s brakes for the most effective, safest braking possible. You must adjust the setting properly to allow the brake controller to do its job optimally. Imagine if the brake controller sends too much current back to the brakes, the brakes would abruptly jam the brake pads into the drums and lock up the brakes. This would skid the tires and make it harder for you to control or stabilize your whole towing setup, and this braking style would wear out the brakes prematurely. 

A brake controller needs to be set properly. In other words, it must let both the tow vehicle and the trailer brake for themselves, instead of making one of them do most of the job to bring the towing setup to a stop. If the trailer’s brakes receive too little electricity from the brake controller, the trailer won’t be able to brake for itself, which means the brakes on the tow vehicle would have to take care of slowing down or stopping the trailer. However, if the brake controller sends too much power to the trailer’s brakes, then they would get the job of slowing or stopping the tow vehicle in front. 

Both scenarios would lead to premature wear and tear to the brake system on both vehicles, and also the wear on the two would not be even, which means your safety while towing is compromised as well as costly replacement. 

Different brake controllers require different methods and steps for adjusting the settings, depending on the manufacturer and your unit’s make and model. Trailer brake controllers get very complicated once you go into the technical details. It’s critical that you have the manufacturer’s instructions on setup and strictly follow each step. 

You should also look online or Youtube for video tutorials on how to adjust the setting of your particular model, if any. Or if there’s none, look for videos on the same type of controller that you have so you’ll have a clearer idea of what the procedures look like. To help you get a general idea though, below are a step by step guide on how to adjust some important settings in an average trailer brake controller on the market today.

Plugging in the trailer wiring harness

For safety, make sure your vehicles are in an extended, open area with no traffic or pedestrians around, and plenty of stopping distance. Park your trailer on level ground, back your towing truck into position and couple your trailer to your truck. 

Then, make sure the trailer wiring harness is plugged into your towing vehicle before setting things up, as the brake controller needs to get power from our towing vehicle and must be connected to the brakes in your trailer to do its job.

Calibrating the brake controller 

Most brake controllers these days are self-calibrating. Others do not require calibration at all. First, park your vehicle on a level ground. Then, all you need to do is to plug your trailer into your tow vehicle and let the brake controller calibrate by itself. Typically, self-calibrating brake controllers will have a flashing light or other forms of signal to indicate when the unit is calibrating and when calibration is complete. After calibration, you might need to adjust the settings to best match the vehicle, the trailer and its load size by strictly following the product’s manual.

Setting the maximum power output

Maximum output is the maximum amount of electrical power the brake controller will send to the trailer’s brakes. This is also commonly called “setting the gain”. As the vehicle brake pedal is applied, the gain tells the brake controller how much current to apply to the trailer brake electromagnets. 

This output needs to be set and adjusted depending on the trailer’s gross weight when loaded. For larger trailers, use a higher output setting. For smaller trailers, use a lower output setting to avoid locking up the brakes and thus abrupt, jerky stopping.

To adjust the maximum output, first check your user instructions for the specified starting output value, then press and hold the vehicle brake pedal and set the output to the starting value.

Now, test the maximum output. In a safe and open area, drive your towing setup forward slowly at about 25 mph and apply the brakes. If it stops too abruptly or locks up, then the maximum output is set too high and needs to be reduced. In contrast, if the vehicle stops too slowly, increase the maximum output. 

You need to find the appropriate gain setting that would allow the trailer brakes to grip firmly for effective braking. In other words, you need to adjust the maximum output setting several times until you have found the highest output without locking up the trailer wheels. Too low a setting will mean that the trailer’s brakes won’t slow down or stop fast enough, but too high a setting will make the brakes locked up and you might lose control of your vehicles and can be dangerous in less than ideal road conditions.

An important note is you might also want to adjust the output setting to best suit the road conditions or the weather conditions for your long towing trip ahead for maximum safety. If you are going to tow in the rain or where there is gravel or loose rock, it’s a good idea to adjust the setting a bit lower so that the trailer brakes do not lock up and might cause you to lose control of your vehicles on rough terrains. Otherwise, if you are travelling on the highway in good weather, you may want to set it a bit higher so that the trailer will brake more aggressively for faster stopping.

Adjusting the sensitivity level

Sensitivity level refers to how aggressively your brake controller will apply the trailer brakes. Similar to adjusting the maximum output, you need to set the sensitivity level at the starting value specified in the products instructions. Then you can test the trailer brakes to adjust the sensitivity level accordingly.

In a safe and open area, drive slowly forward at about 25 mph and apply the brake pedal. If the vehicle stops too abruptly, set a lower sensitivity level. If the vehicle stops too slowly, increase the sensitivity setting. Next, you should test braking at various speeds to ensure effective and smooth stops in emergency situations as well as in different conditions.

Customizing settings

If your brake controller comes with personal settings like the angle of the interface or the brightness of the screen, adjust them to your preference before driving.

Press down on the brake pedal while watching the display on the brake controller. The light should come on and you should get a relatively steady voltage reading. Any variation either way should not exceed 1/10 of a volt.

If the display does not light up, the fuse to the controller is most likely burned. Inspect, have it replaced if needed and repeat the steps above. If the display still doesn’t light up, there’s another burned fuse. This means a short circuit that must be found and repaired before you can perform any tests to check if the brake controller is working.

Troubleshooting

Check the brake control wire: To troubleshoot, you need to first check the brake control wire, which is the blue wire in the trailer connector on the back of the tow vehicle. In a correctly wired connector, this wire should have voltage present when you press on the brakes on the tow vehicle. 

To check if this is the case, have an assistant press on the brake pedal in your truck while at the back, you use a multimeter to probe the terminal connected to the blue wire in the trailer connector. Ask your assistant to move the adjustment control on the brake controller. You should see the amount of voltage present vary. If there’s no voltage present, or if that voltage does not go up or down, there might be a problem with the blue wire itself, or your controller is faulty and needs to be replaced. 

To check the blue wire, probe for voltage in the blue wire. If there’s no voltage present, or the voltage present cannot be modulated, your trailer brake controller is faulty.

Check the wiring of the brake controller: Or the problem might be in the wiring of the brake controller unit. To check the wiring, sever the blue wire. Use a circuit tester to see if you get output to the blue wire. If there is a voltage present, try to activate the blue wire with both the brake pedal and the manual slide bar. If you can, next you will need to test the wires going into the brake controller.

There is a black wire and a red wire that exit from the back of the controller. Make sure you have power entering the brake controller on the black wire. You will only want power on the red wire when the brake pedal is pressed. If there’s no output to the red wire when the pedal is pressed, the controller needs to be replaced. Another scenario is if there is power on the red wire before the brake pedal is pressed, then the red wire is connected to the wrong circuit. To find the correct connection, you need to find the brake switch wire that has power only when the brake pedal is pressed.

FAQs About Trailer Brake Controllers

If your trailer has electric brakes or an electric over hydraulic system, they will not work without a brake controller. If your trailer is equipped with these brake systems, you will always need to install a brake controller before beginning any towing task, or else you won’t be able to operate your trailer brakes.  Many modern trucks and tractors that are designed to tow heavy trailers come with factory-installed brake controllers built into the vehicle, so you won’t need to install any additional controller. However, if yours does not come with a factory-installed brake controller, you will need to have one installed. First is for safety, and second, to comply with the current law.   Due to the necessity of a controller in heavy towing tasks, most states in the United States require by law that you have a brake controller installed if your trailer weighs over 3,000 pounds when fully loaded or the trailer gross weight exceeds 40% of the tow vehicle’s gross weight. Since it’s more likely than not that except for the tiny teardrop trailers and the smallest travel trailer models, most fifth wheels and travel trailers you’d be towing usually double to triple the weight of the towing truck, so having a trailer brake controller installed is an absolute must. 

Electric trailer brakes do not work without a brake controller. If your trailer is equipped with electric brakes, you will need to check whether it comes with a preinstalled controller and if not, have one installed before any towing. 

In most cases, a proportional trailer brake controller provides more comprehensive protection and offers superior performance, especially if you tow regularly or tow heavy trailers and especially in case of emergency braking scenarios. A timed brake controller is much simpler and is also cheaper. Despite not being as good, it should be an economical choice if you only occasionally tow smaller, lighter trailers.

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $60 and $350 for the controller itself, depending on whether you opt for a timed controller or a proportional controller. 

While the unit itself is quite affordable, the installation process is very complicated and is best left to the pros. To have it professionally installed, you can expect to pay in the hundreds,

If you set them up properly, they should last anywhere from 4 years to 10 years , with many users reporting that theirs are still going strong past the 10-year mark.

In general, the best setting for a brake controller directly depends on your trailer and the weight of its cargo. Each manufacturer would provide a detailed manual that will instruct you how to adjust the setting, including the gain level and sensitivity level. Start with what the manufacturer recommended. Then, test the brake controller and brakes to see if you need to increase the settings for more gain or sensitivity.

It’s simple. All you need to do is to unplug the brake controller for about 10 seconds and then plug it in again. This should reset your trailer brake controller.

Most brake controllers these days are self-calibrating. First, park your vehicle on a level ground. Then, all you need to do is to plug your trailer into your tow vehicle and let the brake controller calibrate by itself. After calibration, you might need to adjust the settings to best match the vehicle, the trailer and its load size by strictly following the product’s manual.

Most brake controllers today are made to stay active for a few minutes after the vehicle is turned off and then will eventually go into sleep mode if there’s no activity. And don’t worry, as the small LED light that indicates its mode will only draw such a negligible amount of power that it would not drain your battery.

The controller will go into sleep mode after a few minutes once your vehicle is turned off. If you want to turn the brake controller off completely, just unplug the connector at the back of the unit.

Look for the red wire that comes out from the back of the controller. Use a circuit tester to check if this wire only goes hot when you press on the brake pedal. If it does, then the controller is faulty and must be replaced.

Press down on the brake pedal while watching the brake controller. The display on the controller should light up and hold a relatively steady reading, which should not vary by more than 1/10 of a volt up and down.

Yes it can detect connections with the trailer. The brake controller sends a small amount of voltage to the trailer’s brakes via the brake output wire. Whenever a trailer is hooked up, the magnets in the brake assemblies will create a power draw. This tells the brake controller that a trailer is connected.

It’s difficult to ascertain that your trailer’s electric drum brakes are working just by pressing the brake pedal during a test drive. The best way is to bypass the brake pedals on your tow vehicle. The purpose of this testing method is to get a more accurate sense of any resistance that is coming exclusively from the electric brakes of the trailer itself instead of the brakes in your towing truck. Look for the indicator light or a slide bar with a scale from 0 to 10 on your brake controller. Once you’ve located the slide bar, drive forward slowly and at the same time, start pulling on it gradually to move from 0 to 10. You should feel stronger and stronger resistance from the trailer’s brakes. As you gradually move toward 10 on the slide bar, if you can hardly feel any braking, then the brakes on your trailer are not working properly. You can also double check the trailer’s electric drum brakes without connecting it to your truck. To do this, you’ll need to directly apply +12-volt power from a fully-charged battery to the hot and ground contacts on the trailer’s plug or to the two wires of an individual brake assembly. Then try to rotate the hub. You should feel some resistance and hear gentle humming from the brake magnets.  If you don’t get any resistance, troubleshoot by inspecting the most common sources of problem. First, check the vehicle and trailer connectors for corrosion. The parts most likely to be corroded due to exposure to moisture are the brake feed circuit and ground as they are at the bottom of the connector. Next, check for loose or corroded main ground wire. This sometimes occurs if a trailer is parked idle for extended periods at a time. Any corrosion will cause a short inside the connector and prevent power from reaching the trailer’s brakes. If the main ground wire is fine, check each brake’s ground wire to make sure all of them are made to clean bare metal. If a loose or corroded connection is not the culprit, the problem might be in the wiring of the brake controller unit. To check the wiring, sever the brake output wire, which is typically blue. Use a circuit tester to see if you get output to the blue wire. If you do, try to activate the blue wire with both the brake pedal and the manual slide bar. If you can activate it, you will need to test the wires going into the brake controller. There is a black wire and a red wire that exit from the back of the controller. Make sure you have power entering the brake controller on the black wire. You will only want power on the red wire when the brake pedal is pressed. If there’s no output, the controller needs to be replaced. Another scenario is if there is power on the red wire before the brake pedal is pressed, then the red wire is connected to the wrong circuit. To find the correct connection, you need to find the brake switch wire that has power only when the brake pedal is pressed.  If that doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s most likely that your trailer’s electric brakes are not working properly due to missing components such as a slack adjuster, poorly adjusted brakes or grease-saturated and/or delaminated brake shoes. The problem might also lie with the brake magnets, which you can test using a multimeter.

You can also find other in-depth reviews and buyer’s guides on  best RV tire pressure monitoring system , best RV backup camera , best TV for RV , best portable satellite dish for RV , best RV TV antenna , best Wifi boosters for RV , best cell phone booster for RV , best RV stereo , best pet temperature monitor for RV , best RV GPS , best RV thermostat , best RV security system , and best TV mount for RV  in  RV Electronics  category where we provide you the handpicked list of top-rated products on the market with specific reviews, pros and cons to help you easily choose the best products for your needs and preference.

About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

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How Do Travel Trailer Brakes Work (Full Breakdown)

Table of Contents

Importance Of Trailer Brakes

When you’re towing a heavy load, acceleration is not much of a concern, but rather slowing down to a stop or trying to avoid a mishap in front of you is much more important. You have a lot of weight and inertia that would be very difficult for your tow vehicle to manage on its own. This is why having good properly working travel trailer brakes is so important.

State Laws 

According to rvia.org most states require brakes on trailers weighing 3,000 lbs or more. Some states may vary from this, but 3000 lbs seem to be pretty standard among the states. So, if you’re planning on purchasing a new travel trailer that is over 3000lbs or more, you will most likely have either an electric or surge brake system on the trailer.

Different Types Of Travel Trailer Brakes

Electric brakes.

Electric brakes are constructed with electronic components and a set of magnets that apply pressure to a wheel hub. This is controlled by a module that is located in the tow vehicle and is applied as you are pressing on the vehicle’s brake. This connection is made with a trailer harness that will be connected to the tow vehicle.

Brake Controller – The brake controller is the device located in your vehicle near the driver that will control the brakes electronically. Some vehicles will come equipped with the controller from the factory or they will need to be added from a third party manufacturer.

The brake controllers sensitivity can be changed helping your particular trailer slow down at a nice steady pace instead of locking up the brakes.

Also, the brake controller will unusually have a slider or button that can be applied by hand instead of the foot brake. 

You may think whey in the world would you use that instead of applying the vehicle brakes?

Well, when I’m personally going down the road and notice my trailer swaying a bit, I will quickly apply the trailer brake to take the sway out (I call it taking the sway out ). Others will use it as they are going down a hill and don’t wish to hit the vehicle brake.

The key thing here is to apply it quickly and not aggressively.

Surge Brakes

Surge brakes…or sometimes referred to as “inertia brakes”, are controlled by the push and pull of the vehicle.

This engages the master cylinder that creates pressure in the brake lines by the use of fluid and puts pressure on the trailer drums or rotors depending on the trailer.

These brakes are typically found on lighter trailers and popular on pop up campers where electric brakes are not necessary.

Breakaway Brake Systems (Emergency Systems)

This is a system that automatically brakes your travel trailer if it ever detaches going down the road. The cable is attached to the tow vehicle from the travel trailer tongue area and will pull a pin if it detaches and apply the brakes on the trailer bringing it to a stop.

That’s the theory but as trailers age, this cable and pin can corrode and needs to be inspected regularly to ensure it will work properly if ever needed.

Brake Maintenance 

• Electric Brakes- This setup has more parts that need to be inspected and maintained to ensure they are working at optimum capacity. You should check to see if any of your wheels are locking up which can sometimes happen if a magnet is not calibrated correctly and is pressing on the drum too tightly.
• Surge Brakes – This setup relies on the fluid that is pushed in the brake lines and will need to be checked to ensure that there is enough fluid in the reservoir and that there are no leaks that may be slowly leaking. If you find a leak from the lines or from the coupler, you should repair or replace the part and make sure to top off the fluid after the repair is made.

Brake Inspection: Key Signs That Your Travel Trailer Brakes Need Service

Regular brake inspections can help you identify potential issues before they become more significant problems. Be on the lookout for these key signs that your travel trailer brakes may need service:

• Squeaking or grinding noises : These sounds may indicate worn brake pads or shoes.
• Reduced braking performance : If your trailer takes longer to stop, the brakes may need attention.
• Vibration or pulsation : These sensations may be caused by warped rotors or drums.
• Brake warning light : This dashboard indicator signals a potential issue with your brake system.

Replacing Brake Pads and Shoes: A Step-by-Step Guide for Travel Trailer Brake Service

When your travel trailer’s brake pads or shoes wear down, it’s essential to replace them promptly. Follow these steps for a successful brake service:

• Raise the trailer : Use a jack to lift the trailer, supporting it with jack stands.
• Remove the wheel : Unscrew the lug nuts and remove the wheel, exposing the brake assembly.
• Remove the old brake pads or shoes : Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to remove the worn components.
• Install the new brake pads or shoes : Position the new components according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
• Reassemble the brake assembly : Reinstall the caliper or drum, ensuring all components are properly aligned.
• Replace the wheel : Reattach the wheel and tighten the lug nuts securely.

Servicing Brake Rotors and Drums: Tips for Prolonging

To extend the lifespan of your travel trailer’s brake rotors and drums, follow these tips:

• Inspect for wear : Regularly check the condition of your rotors and drums, looking for signs of warping, grooves, or cracks.
• Resurface or replace : If your rotors or drums show signs of wear, have them resurfaced or replaced as needed to maintain optimal braking performance.
• Avoid overheating : Overheating can cause damage to your brake components. To prevent this, avoid overloading your trailer and maintain a safe following distance to reduce frequent hard braking.

How Long Do Electric Trailer Brakes Last?

Since this brake system uses magnets to put pressure on the wheels, these will eventually wear out. The average life expectancy of brakes can vary based on load, brand, and other factors. 

Every 3000 miles you should inspect the performance of the brake and if you feel like they are not performing as they once were, you should take it into a shop and have them do an inspection. You want to be proactive here and not wait until you have a catastrophic failure while on the road.

Can I Tow A Trailer With Electric Brakes Without A Brake Controller?

You can tow a travel trailer that is equipped with electric brakes without a brake controller. The brakes will not engage without the power from the controller so you do not have to be concerned about the brake system locking up on you. 

But I have to say that it is not advised to do this because of safety concerns.

I hope this article was helpful and as always…

Good luck and happy camping.

Check out our article on: Can You Ride In A Travel Trailer? (State Guide Included)

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When looking for the best brakes for towing a travel trailer, there are many things to consider. This guide will help you make an informed decision and find the best brakes for you and your towing needs.

Below, we discuss the important factors you should think about when choosing the best brakes for towing a travel trailer and offer some suggestions that you can count on to haul your cargo safely.

What Are the Best Brakes for Towing a Travel Trailer?

Safety is the top priority when it comes to selecting the best brakes for towing a travel trailer. Travel trailers typically weigh between 1,500 to 6,300 pounds. If your vehicle can’t handle the task of pulling and stopping such a heavy load, it could put your safety and the safety of others on the road in jeopardy.

There are numerous brake choices available, which can make it challenging to determine which ones are trustworthy. This is why we’ve created a comprehensive guide to help you understand the key factors in selecting the best brakes for towing a travel trailer.

The Material of Your Brake Pad

The performance of your truck’s brake pads is heavily influenced by the material they are made of , with durability and friction being the key factors. You may encounter diverse conditions when towing a travel trailer, from steep dirt roads to extended highway drives, so you need brake pads that can handle a range of situations.

There are several types of brake pads available:

• Ceramic Brake Pads : These are a cost-effective and reliable choice for travel trailers. Ceramic brake pads provide excellent wear resistance and consistent friction levels, making them suitable for standard towing needs.
• Carbon Fiber Brake Pads : Known for exceptional wear resistance and high friction coefficients, carbon fiber brake pads are particularly effective for heavy-duty towing. Their use of carbon fiber ensures longevity and top-tier braking power, making them ideal for travel trailer applications.
• NAO Brake Pads (Non-Asbestos Organic) : These brake pads utilize organic components such as fibers, glass, rubber, and high-temperature resins. With a softer composition compared to metal-based pads, NAO pads reduce noise levels and alleviate strain on the rotors .
• Low Metallic Brake Pads : Containing 10 to 30 percent metal, typically steel or copper, in addition to organic materials, these pads offer a balance between durability and noise reduction.
• Semi-Metallic Brake Pads : Comprising 30 to 65 percent metal, semi-metallic pads are commonly made from materials like wire, copper, graphite, or steel wool, combined with a friction-modifying element.

PowerStop’s Z36 Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads deliver best-in-class performance and reliability. With a blend of carbon and ceramic, these brake pads excel in all weather conditions, minimize noise and vibrations, and come equipped with premium stainless steel hardware. Choosing PowerStop means investing in safety, durability, and peace of mind.

Heat Dissipation

Braking operations produce significant heat as a result of the friction between the brake pads and the rotors. Effective heat dissipation is crucial to prevent permanent deformation of the brake pads.

The PowerStop Z36 Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pad’s design aims to diminish brake fade, ensuring severe-duty stopping power for heavy-duty applications without compromising everyday drivability. An ideal choice for towing a travel trailer, these brake pads are crafted to provide better heat dissipation to ensure maximum safety under braking.

Braking Noise

Undesirable noise during braking, especially while towing a travel trailer trailer, can stem from the vibrations and friction between the brake pad surface and the rotor. To mitigate this, many towing brake pads are engineered to minimize vibrations during braking, resulting in a notable reduction in noise levels.

Proper maintenance also plays a vital role in noise prevention. Regularly cleaning the brake pads to keep them free of dust and dirt can significantly contribute to lowering noise levels, ensuring a quieter and more pleasant braking experience.

Read More: Brake Squeal – Causes and Solutions

How much do travel trailers weigh.

Depending on the type, travel trailers can vary significantly in weight. 

• Pop-up Trailers : The average weight is 1500 lbs and can be towed by most SUVs and trucks. 
• Teardrop Trailers : The average weight is 2500 lbs and can be towed by most SUVs and trucks.
• Small Travel Trailers (less than 25 feet) : The average weight is 3500 lbs and can be towed by mid-size SUVs and small pickup trucks. 
• Large Travel Trailers ( more than 25 feet) : The average weight is 6300 lbs and can be towed by larger SUVs and half-ton pickup trucks.

It’s crucial to remember that the weight of your travel trailer is just one thing to think about when you’re planning to tow it. You also need to think about the weight of the travel trailer’s cargo, and how much your vehicle can handle when towing. If you go over your vehicle’s towing limit, it can be dangerous and make your vehicle handle and brake poorly. Be sure to check the specifications from the manufacturer for both your vehicle and the travel trailer.

What Size Travel Trailer Can My Vehicle Safely Tow?

Your vehicle’s towing capacity refers to the most weight it can safely pull. This depends on numerous factors, such as how the vehicle is set up, how much weight it’s already carrying, and how you load and control the weight you want to tow.

Vehicle manufacturers provide an estimated towing capacity, but it doesn’t adhere to every situation. To figure it out, you need to know a lot more about both your towing vehicle and the travel trailer you want to tow.

Automakers give a towing capacity for each vehicle they make, but this is based on the assumption that the towing vehicle only has the driver inside. If you plan to tow a travel trailer and have your family and all their luggage with you for a weekend trip, the manufacturer’s numbers may not be accurate for your unique situation.

What Is a GCWR?

To figure out how much your vehicle can safely tow, you need to find out the gross combined weight rating (GCRW), or the total weight your vehicle and the trailer will be carrying. This includes everything from the passengers to the gas and windshield washer fluid. 

You can find your towing capacity by subtracting the empty vehicle weight from the total weight of the vehicle and trailer combined. Automakers strongly recommend that you never go over this limit. For safety, it’s best to stay at least 10% below that maximum limit.

Loads can shift, people can make mistakes, and unexpected things can happen on the road. 

So, it’s not a good idea to push your vehicle to its absolute limit when towing.

What Is GVWR?

The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the heaviest a vehicle can be with all its cargo, like people, fuel, and the weight of anything you’re towing.

If you go over this limit, you might get stopped by the police and fined. More importantly, an overloaded vehicle that surpasses its GVWR could lead to an accident and unsafe driving. To know your vehicle’s GVWR and other towing details, check your owner’s manual or the label inside the driver’s door.

What Is Payload Capacity?

Payload capacity is the maximum weight that your vehicle can carry safely in both the cabin and the truck bed. This includes things like cargo, luggage, people, or things in the back of a pickup truck.

Knowing your vehicle’s payload capacity is crucial when you’re thinking about getting a truck camper because the entire weight of the camper rests on the truck bed, unlike something you’d tow behind the vehicle.

Payload capacity can be found on your VIN sticker, in your manual, or by subtracting the curb weight of your vehicle (the total weight of a vehicle and all its fluids, including a full tank of gas) by the GVWR.

GVWR – Curb Weight = Max Payload Capacity

Braked vs. unbraked towing capacity.

Certain trailers have their own brakes, which are wired to the towing vehicle. When you press the brake pedal in the towing vehicle, it triggers both the vehicle’s brakes and the trailer’s brakes simultaneously. If the trailer has its own brakes, it becomes much easier to control and tow a heavier load.

So, the “braked towing capacity” is the maximum weight your towing vehicle can pull when the trailer has its own brakes, and it’s higher than the “unbraked towing capacity,” which is the weight your towing vehicle can pull when the trailer doesn’t have its own brakes.

What Does 60/40 Load Weight Mean When Towing a Travel Trailer?

When people talk about “60/40 load weight” in the context of towing a travel trailer, they’re usually discussing how the weight is divided between the tow vehicle and the travel trailer. Specifically:

• The “60” means 60% of the total weight is on the front axle of the tow vehicle.
• The “40” means 40% of the total weight is on the rear axle of the trailer.

This weight distribution is crucial for keeping the towing stable and under control. Ideally, you want the weight to be balanced to avoid problems like swaying, difficulty steering, and uneven tire wear. The exact weight distribution can vary based on the type of trailer, the tow vehicle, and what the trailer or vehicle manufacturer recommends.

Properly splitting the weight between the front and rear axles ensures that both the tow vehicle and the trailer carry their share of the load, which improves safety and handling while towing. To tow safely and steadily, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for your specific towing setup.

Want Severe-Duty Stopping Power? Get the Powerstop Z36 Truck & Tow Brake Upgrade Kit!

If you’re looking for the best brakes for towing a travel trailer, PowerStop has just what you need. The PowerStop Z36 Truck & Tow Brake Upgrade Kit is specially made to boost braking power for trucks, SUVs, and 4x4s that face tough tasks like driving in the mountains, carrying heavy loads, towing, and going off-road.

This kit includes advanced carbon-fiber ceramic Z36 Truck & Tow Brake Pads, Drilled & Slotted Rotors , stainless-steel hardware, and high-temperature brake lubricant. All of these work together to enhance stopping ability and handle the extra strain of towing a travel trailer.

Here’s what makes this kit stand out:

• Carbon Fiber Ceramic Material : The carbon fiber in PowerStop brake pads ensures top-notch braking performance and durability.
• Premium Stainless Steel Hardware Kit : The hardware parts in the kit are high quality, ensuring they are reliable and last a long time.
• Drilled & Slotted Rotors : The drilled, slotted, and zinc-plated rotors not only provide maximum cooling but also help guard against rust and corrosion.
• All-Weather Design : PowerStop’s Z36 Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads are designed to excel in all weather conditions, making them a reliable choice for vehicles that tow travel trailers.

The best part? The kit is easy to install with no need for vehicle modifications. Plus, it comes with a guarantee, including a 60-day hassle-free return policy and a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty.

PowerStop brakes are built to handle even the toughest conditions. When you choose PowerStop, you can feel confident that you are getting the braking performance you can trust to keep you and your cargo safe.

Have a Question? PowerStop Can Help

PowerStop is dedicated to delivering top-quality performance brakes for nearly every vehicle on the road. If you have a question about any of our products, contact us today online at [email protected] or toll-free at (888) 863-4415 . Our customer service team is available to answer your questions Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CST). Se habla español.

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How to Replace Trailer Brakes

Last Updated on January 25, 2024 by allprotrailersuperstore

Properly functioning trailer brakes should never be an afterthought. Every trailer owner should grow familiar with the process of checking and installing new braking systems — both for the integrity of your rig and the safety of others on the road.

Follow the steps to learn the basics on how to remove and replace your trailer’s brakes, plus warning signs it’s time to get those trailer brake replacements in the first place.

Table of Contents

• At 200 Miles for Manually Adjusted Brakes
• At 12,000 Miles
• When Your Manual Recommends
• When Brake Performance Generally Suffers
• Proper Tools
• General Equipment
• Perform a Brake Controller Inspection
• Expose the Inner Brake Drum
• Inspect the Brake Drum Assembly
• Remove the Brake Drum’s Inner Wheel Bearing and Seal Components
• Clean the Removed Drum and Axle Spindle
• Replace the Inner Brake Assembly
• Add New Wheel Bearings and Races, If Needed
• Reinstall the New Outer Brake Bearing Components
• Return the Tire
• Test Actuation
• You’re Unsure About Drum Conditions
• You Want a Second Opinion on Shoe-Drum Tension
• You Just Want the Expert’s Touch

Find a Trailer Brake Inspection and Service Provider Near You

When should you replace trailer brakes.

There is no single, definitive point where you must install new brakes in your trailer.

Instead, mechanics and brake manufacturers alike suggest keeping track of certain variables to help inform the general condition of your brakes. These variables, such as your trailer’s weight, towing frequency, distances traveled, towing terrain and even driving style will all affect trailer brake replacement schedules.

However, there are a few milestones to consider when maintaining the quality and integrity of your trailer’s brakes — as well as recommendations straight from your brake’s manual — and ensuring the safety of your tow.

1. At 200 Miles for Manually Adjusted Brakes

It’s recommended that brand new, fresh-out-the-dealership trailers see their brakes inspected and adjusted near the 200-mile mark.

Around 200 miles is the time when brake shoes and drums, two central components of the brake’s inner assembly, will have “seated.” Properly seated shoes and drums interact with your braking system’s electromagnet and core brake controller. Together, these pieces ultimately trigger the friction that stops your trailer every time you press down on the brake in the driver’s seat.

Without properly seated shoes and drums, the braking process will be slow, inefficient or — worst-case scenario — even dangerous.

After a 200-mile brake inspection , trailer brakes can generally be reviewed roughly once a year, during annual licensing inspections or as much as your trailer towing frequency requires.

2. At 12,000 Miles

In addition to annual brake system inspections, wheel bearings should be  lubricated roughly every 12,000 miles . For regularly towed heavy-duty travel trailers and fifth-wheel RVs that see many miles on the road, those schedules could be more often.

Note, though, that greasing or “packing” bearings is not the same as replacing bearings. However, the two are similar processes in that accessing the inner and outer bearings will require comparable steps to all-out installing new brakes.

3. When Your Manual Recommends

Check the brake recommendations stated in your trailer owner’s manual or produced by your axle manufacturer. That manual should also explain the generalized, step-by-step instructions for how to install and replace your model’s specific brake components, adjust shoe seating and properly pack your bearings.

4. When Brake Performance Generally Suffers

Apply common sense when it comes to maintaining and replacing your trailer brakes. If you notice noisy wheel bearings, odd brake lags or differences in braking pressures, it’s time to inspect components. If adjusting brake shoes still doesn’t cut it, you could be due for a system replacement.

What Do You Need to Replace Trailer Brakes?

Replacing trailer brake systems will require a handful of tools to conduct the installation safely and efficiently. Ensure you own or have access to the following before removing any trailer wheel parts.

1. Proper Tools

These basic mechanical tools will make up the toolkit when replacing trailer brakes:

• Tire iron:  To safely remove trailer wheels.
• Grooved pliers:  Ideal for gripping a trailer brake system’s disparately sized parts.
• Flathead screwdriver:  For a variety of necessary plying and screwing steps.
• Mallet:  For the quickest, most functional way to remove the initial grease and dust trap.
• Wire cutters:  Essential to cut and remove your brake’s old magnet wires and crimp its new ones.
• Torque wrench:  To tighten the trailer’s wheel and various brake pieces into place, following manual limits.
• Hammer:  Making sure various smaller seals and washers you’ll be installing sit flush around edges.

2. General Equipment

In addition to the tools above, make sure to have the following items on hand:

• Hydraulic car jack:  To prop the vehicle up, then support the trailer while it’s mounted off-ground.
• Work gloves:  Work gloves are especially important if you’re packing grease into your own replacement bearings, a process explained more in-depth below.
• Appropriate grease lubricant:  Ideally a type approved by the axle manufacturer, to pack inner and outer brake bearings.

Interested in the process of replacing your trailer brakes? Professional mechanics follow these step-by-step instructions to assure a smooth, safe and, hopefully, head-ache-free electric trailer brake installation.

1. Perform a Brake Controller Inspection

Before getting your hands dirty, you must first inspect the mechanical heart of the entire trailer’s braking system — the brake controller.

Brake controllers connect and communicate with your brake drum’s magnet. Most drivers will place their controllers near or beneath their dashboards, making it easy to access and check when braking issues arise.

To run an initial brake controller inspection, review the following:

• Wire conditions:  Controller wires should look smooth and intact, without visible fraying, bumps, tears or scoring
• Schematic included:  Make sure your brake controller still contains its schematic — that is, its general wiring diagram signaling  how to wire the trailer  according to its specs properly.
• Proper power readings and outputs:  Controllers should be sending appropriate outputs to your trailer brakes, which you can check using a voltmeter or similar device.

2. Expose the Inner Brake Drum

Brake drum deconstruction begins by removing the outer dust or grease cap, then removing a handful of components around the central spindle or axle.

• Remove the dust/grease cap:  Use large grooved pliers, a screwdriver or — when caps are older and worn — a mallet to pop off the cap. If using a mallet, apply forcible but controlled outward-facing hits while spinning the drum to loosen it gradually.
• Pry off the nut retainer:  Next, use a large flathead screwdriver to push off the nut retainer and then the securing cotter pin, if there is one.
• Spin off the spindle nut:  Use your hands to remove the retaining spindle nut from the central axle.
• Remove the outer bearing:  At this point, the outer wheel bearing should slip off relatively smoothly. It’s generally recommended to discard outer bearings, as these components tend to get rusty with age.

3. Inspect the Brake Drum Assembly

With your brake drum interior assembly exposed, you can now inspect its interior assembly components, including the magnet. Check the overall brake drum assembly for:

• Cracks, scores or loose springs across the drum assembly’s surface
• Proper drum thickness, not worn down away from suggested spec sizes

Mechanics will then turn their attention to the assembly’s central magnet, which is what receives outputs from the controller to engage the trailer brakes. They’ll check to see if the magnet:

• Wiggles around a bit when pushed.  This is good — you don’t want stiff or congealed magnets.
• Contains four surface dots.  Trailer brake magnets should contain four dots on its face-side surface. When a magnet wears down, these dots disappear.

This is also a great point to check your star wheel. Star wheels are a small adjustment spring located at the bottom of your magnet. Like the magnet itself, it should also wiggle when pressed but shouldn’t feel loose.

4. Remove the Brake Drum’s Inner Wheel Bearing and Seal Components

First, use wire cutters to snip your magnet’s wires just behind the drum’s backplate. This can be a daunting step, often one best left to professionals.

• Important note:  Perform this step only when reinstalling an entirely new brake assembly kit. Otherwise, you’ll permanently cut off your magnet-controller connection.

Begin unscrewing the nuts and washers holding the interior brake assembly to its central axle. You may also have to unscrew the wheel bearing seal, which many manufacturers mark with arrows. Once unscrewed, the rest of the drum assembly should slide right off, leaving you with a naked axle.

5. Clean the Removed Drum and Axle Spindle

Use appropriate solvents to spray and  clean your axle , removing any dirt, grime or residual lubricant that’s accumulated. Do the same with your interior brake drum you’ve just removed.

This is also a great time to clean and grease your unit’s zerk filling, dumping out any residual grease and refilling it with fresh lubricant. Inspect the bearing races you exposed in Steps 2 and 4. If any are scarred or chipped, find replacements immediately. Finally, add a light layer of fresh lubricant back onto your spindle.

6. Replace the Inner Brake Assembly

Your new inner drum assembly likely comes in a kit containing all the components and pieces you’ll need for the new drum. These kits tend to include but aren’t limited to any of the following:

• Left- and right-side shoes
• Fresh bolts, usually around 3/8-inch
• Magnet unit
• Inner bearings, sometimes pre-grease packed, other times not

Once removed from its packaging, carefully place the new inner brake assembly on the freshly lubricated spindle. Take care you position the assembly’s right and left shoes in their appropriate sides. You may also now coil-crimp your assembly magnet’s two wires back where you cut the old ones, just behind the drum plate. Trailer brake magnets are not polarized, so the positive and negative sides can be interchanged here.

Keep in mind the following situations that often strike while replacing an inner brake drum assembly:

• The drum won’t fit over the left and right shoe:  Expand the shoes by turning the tension adjuster, or star wheel, located at the base of the brake assembly’s magnet. The drum should eventually slide between the two tabs.
• Overall shoe tension isn’t right:  There should be a tiny gap left between the drum and the left and right shoes. Too much or too little room left between these components, and you’ll have a hard time applying enough pressure to your trailer brakes. While drums and shoes actually do self-adjust for proper pressurization over time, they must start off on a semi-appropriate spatial ratio to ensure you’re driving a stoppable vehicle.

7. Add New Wheel Bearings and Races, If Needed

Grease your inner bearings before applying them back into the outer brake drum hub, which should also be lubricated. However, do note that greasing bearings is a dirty job. These ridged pieces need to be “packed” with grease, either by using a professional bearing packer tool or by placing a blob in your palm and packing it the old-fashioned way.

Don’t be stingy when grease packing. You want each bearing to be slicked, even slightly oozing, with lubricant, able to slide easily back into the drum hub and onto the axle. Double-check you’re using only high-temperature wheel bearing grease as well.

8. Reinstall the New Outer Brake Bearing Components

At this point, you’re ready to attach the outer brake bearings and assembly components back over the cleaned and lubricated axle. This will connect it with your inner brake assembly components, including your newly wired magnet.

After positioning the drum hub, you can begin reinstalling the other outer drum and bearing components you removed in Step 2, now in reverse order. That means reinstalling first the hub with its packed grease bearings, then the wider drum, then the outer wheel bearing, the bearing washers, the retaining spindle nut, the cotter pin and — last but not least — the grease cap.

If your grease cap is worn or damaged and no longer seats squarely over a hub, find a replacement. Grease caps are generally inexpensive but it’s critical they seal tightly.

9. Return the Tire

With all of your new trailer brake pieces in place, you may now reinstall your trailer’s tires. Use a torque wrench or similar tool to torque the lug nuts back to their designated factory specs.

10. Test Actuation

Last but not least, grab your brake controller to  run a final actuation test . This test checks to see if the electric side of your trailer brake system has been configured correctly, namely the crimping system wires back in Step 6.

Maximum voltage outputs during your actuation will vary depending on your trailer type and brake kit. However, if the voltmeter or similar testing device doesn’t register a maximum voltage output in less than five seconds, or if readings don’t match manufacturer schematics, there may be a lingering problem with the trailer brake. Wiring problems like these are rare when all installation steps and details have been performed by a professional.

When to Have Trailer Brakes Replaced Professionally

Having a professional mechanic inspect or install your electronic trailer brakes can be a relief. For many people, the technicality and gravity of properly replacing trailer brakes is too big a task to take on themselves.

Always err on the side of caution when it comes to working on your trailer, including tackling even “minor” brake concerns. If any of the following situations apply to you, consider  scheduling a trailer brake inspection or repair .

1. You’re Unsure About Drum Conditions

Brake drums are reusable. Yet as one of the central components of the entire braking system, you may find yourself wanting a second opinion on the true nature of its condition.

Local auto shops can inspect your drums beyond surface rust. Some even have special machines which can put drums through a rejuvenation process called turning, which is more cost-conscious than buying new drum kits altogether.

2. You Want a Second Opinion on Shoe-Drum Tension

Properly seating shoes is essential to creating and maintaining good levels of friction for braking. It can also take a little finesse, particularly to find that initial balance between drum-shoe gaps and wiggle room before they self-adjust over time.

Professional mechanics can set that Goldilocks-level amount of tension within your new brake system. This may alleviate any worry your brakes aren’t seated properly or aren’t self-adjusting at healthy rates.

3. You Just Want the Expert’s Touch

There are nearly a dozen pieces of equipment that go into installing a brand new trailer brake kit. What’s more, installing trailer brakes almost always involves electrical actuation tests and precise wire cutting in addition to the physical mechanics, adding another daunting layer of work.

Having a professional install your trailer brakes ensures it’s done quickly and done well. That pledge is powerful, putting your mind at ease while you haul thousands of pounds down the open road.

Reach out to the trailer experts  at All Pro Trailer Superstore with any questions you have regarding your trailer’s electric brake systems. No concern is too small — and no reason justifies leaving the safety of your brakes to chance.

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Learning Center > Trailer Options > Axles & Suspension > Trailer Brakes

Axles & Suspension

Trailer brakes.

Published July 18, 2023

Diamond C offers three types of brakes: Electric Drum , Electric Over Hydraulic Drum , and Electric Over Hydraulic Disc brakes. Below are some helpful tips for choosing the right brakes for your trailer.

Electric Drum Trailer Brakes

Electric drum brakes are the utility and flatbed trailer industry standard for trailer braking systems. They are controlled by an in-cab controller that comes standard on many of today’s trucks and SUVs. Electric drum brakes are well suited for most general use applications – trailers that are used moderately within their capacity and towed with some regularity. If you plan to use your trailer aggressively in relation to its PAYLOAD CAPACITY and plan to tow it on a more regular basis, then keep scrolling to see our electric over hydraulic brake options below.

How to Burnish Your Trailer Brakes

Electric Drum Brakes require a proper  BREAK-IN PERIOD  to achieve full performance. Watch below for a step-by-step guide from Lippert Axles on the proper burnishing procedures.

Electric Over Hydraulic Drum Trailer Brakes

Electric over hydraulic drum brakes are similar in that they are controlled by the same in-cab controller as standard electric drum brakes. They also share the same actual drum braking components. Where they differ is that instead of electromagnetic force being utilized to help slow the trailer, the electric pulse from the tow vehicle activates a small hydraulic pump that sends fluid into the drum to forcefully apply braking pressure. 

Electric Over Hydraulic Disc Trailer Brakes

Electric over hydraulic disc brakes are similar to both previous brake types in that they are operated by an in-cab controller. However, disc brakes are what avid heavy-duty trailers users would describe as “the ultimate” when it comes to trailer braking systems. They use the same hydraulic force we mentioned in electric over hydraulic drum Brakes for better braking pressure, but where they differ is the use of disc (rotor) / caliper braking components instead of the drums. Disc brakes provide increased stopping power over drums. In addition, disc brakes are more cost-effective when it comes to upkeep and preventative maintenance over time. With disc brakes, you can replace individual brake pads versus replacing the more costly full drum braking assembly.

We are proud to partner with DEEMAXX COMPONENTS for all our 7K – 16K Disc Brakes.

(Download DeeMaxx Flyer)

If you are a gooseneck HOT SHOT trailer user who has put in a lot of miles over the years, we highly recommend hydraulic disc brakes.

Benefits of Hydraulic Disc Brakes:

• Last longer
• Stop faster
• Cheaper to maintain for high mileage trailers

16K Disk Brakes

In early 2021 we announced the 16K Electric over Hydraulic Disc Brake option. This industry-first option has been a long time coming, resulting from a 2-year collaborative journey between Diamond C and LIPPERT . These 16K Disc Brakes are now available on all FMAX216 , SDX216 , & PX216 models.

Tune in below for the whole story:

How to bleed Hydraulic Brakes

Watch the video below for a step-by-step process and guide to correctly bleeding hydraulic brakes on your trailer.

Disc Brake & Hub Oil Maintenance Guide

Watch as Jacob highlights important maintenance tips for your disc brakes and gives tips on maintaining the correct oil level on your hubs.

Build Your Trailer

Ready to build your trailer with your choice of brake selection? Click below to view and price all our trailer models:

Hot Shot Trailers

Published February 15, 2023

Hot shot trailer users demand durability and versatility from their equipment, and our trailers are definitely up to the task.

Lippert Axles

Published April 1, 2021

Lippert provides an ultra-high-quality product, utilizing state-of-the-art robotic welders to ensure the highest precision and quality on every axle.

Valcrum Hubcaps

Published November 6, 2020

We use Valcrum's next generation trailer hubcaps on all our heavy duty trailer axles.

Best Trailer Brake Controller for RV and Campers

• Latest Posts

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You’ve finally bought that brand new camper trailer you’ve had your eye on for years. You’ve bought your towing mirrors, your hitch lock, and your trailer hitch ball mount, and now you’re all set to hit the road.

Yet before you put your foot on the gas, it’s important to note that there’s one more vital piece of equipment that you simply can’t leave home without:

A trailer brake controller.

But first, here’s my bottom line up front summary of the best RV trailer brake controllers:

• Tekonsha 90195 : Best Overall Trailer Brake
• P3 Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2 : Best LCD Display Trailer Brake
• Reese Towpower : Best Time Delayed Trailer Brake
• Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ
• Tekonsha 90195 P3  

An essential part of your towing arsenal, investing in the best camper trailer brake controller your budget will allow will ultimately prove invaluable in protecting the safety of you, your loved ones, and your vehicle.

Not that choosing the right one is always an easy task for those new to the RV lifestyle . With all kinds of new jargon and pieces of technology to familiarise yourself with, simply trying to get your head around the myriad of options can be frustrating enough to put you off the whole idea altogether.

Here’s the good news:

Choosing a quality brake controller doesn’t have to be so confusing.

Today, we take an in-depth look at some of the best camper trailer brake controllers on the market this year, exploring the pros and cons of each and explaining everything you need to know about the key features and technical details of the latest models.

That’s not all.

We’ll also answer your most burning questions about brake controllers to help you make the most informed decision possible when it comes to choosing an option that’s right for you, your vehicle, and your budget.

Before we really dive deep into all of that, let’s tackle the one question that’s perhaps most on your mind if you’re about to tow a camper trailer for the first time.

What is a camper trailer brake controller?

In its most sensitive, a trailer brake controller does exactly what you’d imagine it does:

It gives you the ability to control the brake pads on your trailer, ultimately making it much easier, and safer to drive while towing one.

If you’ve ever towed a trailer before, you’ll know what a big difference it can make to your driving, especially when it comes to slowing down and stopping.

All of that extra weight behind you forces you to put a little more muscle into it, pressing harder on the brakes in order to stop safely and in plenty of time.

A trailer brake controller looks to alleviate this problem by connecting your trailer’s brakes to the main brakes in your vehicle so that you ultimately end up controlling the former with the latter.

This means that you end up needing to apply less force to your vehicle’s brakes, creating a smoother and safer journey all round.

Who needs a brake controller?

Suffice to say, brake pad controllers aren’t necessary for smaller, lightweight trailers.

For example, if you’re hitching a small tow trailer to the back of your RV, that’s not going to make a huge amount of difference and you’ll likely get by without one.

If, however, you’re towing anything like one of the larger-scale teardrop trailer or perhaps something even bigger, then a brake controller is going to prove to be an essential part of your arsenal.

As a general rule, anything you tow that is over 1650 pounds (750 kg) should have brakes and a brake controller installed.

Why bother with a trailer brake controller?

So far, we like to think we’ve made a compelling argument for why camper trailer brake controllers are such a good idea but look, we get it:

When you start checking out the price of the average controller, it can be all too tempting to try and go it alone.

Yes, you know it will your life more difficult while you’re out on the road, but isn’t that a small price to pay if it saves you money that you could better spend on more exciting RV accessories ?

No, it isn’t. In fact, the decision to try and tow your camper trailer without a brake controller installed could well end up costing you dearly.

For one thing, there’s the fact that trailer brake controllers are a legal requirement in an increasing number of US states . So, unless you’re prepared to run foul of the law, it pays to get one for yourself.

Still, let’s say you live in one of the few states that haven’t yet issued any kind of regulation on the subject.

Why should you even bother looking at some of the best brake controllers out there, let alone buying one?

There are two key answers to this question.

First of all, the initial investment you make in a brake controller could well end up saving you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars further down the line.

All that added pressure you need to put on your vehicle’s brakes in order to account for the extra weight of your camper trailer will eventually cause all kinds of wear and tear to your brakes . Naturally, that will only lead to countless trips to the auto shop for a whole raft of expensive repairs.

Invest in a brake controller for your camper trailer, and you’re ultimately saving yourself all of those trips and all of that money.

The second and more important reason is that a brake controller is an invaluable safety feature for anyone towing a sizeable camper trailer.

Think about it:

Even if you work your vehicle’s brakes extra hard in order to account for the trailer, that trailer will, at least temporarily, keep moving at the same velocity, increasing the risk that it slams into the back of your vehicle or possibly even jackknifes.

That’s not to mention the fact that all that additional wear and tear on your breaks could potentially make it harder to brake in an emergency even if you don’t have your trailer hitched up at the time.

What are the different types of brake controllers?

There are essentially two different types of controller, proportional controllers, and time-delayed controllers, both of which operate very differently.

Let’s look at each one in turn.

Time-delayed brake controllers

With a time-delayed controller, you set a predetermined amount of pressure to be applied to your trailer brakes whenever you press on the brakes in your vehicle.

The amount of pressure you select, along with the length of the time delay between you pressing your vehicle’s brakes and the trailer’s brakes being activated is dependent not only on the weight of your camper trailer itself but also on road conditions and several other critical factors.

Pros time-delayed controllers

• Less expensive than proportional models
• Greater number of customizable options
• Easy to install

Cons of time-delayed controllers

• More complicated to set-up and configure after installing
• Causes more wear-and-tear to breaks due to the single pressure setting.

Proportional controllers

If setting everything manually sounds like a pain, you may prefer a proportional controller, which uses a sensor to identify how much pressure should be applied to the trailer brakes at any given moment.

When you apply the brakes in your vehicle, a complex braking system looks at the current speed of the trailer and monitors external factors, then produces precise calculations to ensure that the appropriate amount of force is applied to the trailer brakes at exactly the right moment.

Pros of proportional controllers

• Easier to configure, with minimal post-installation set-up needed
• Smoother breaking

Cons of proportional controllers

More expensive than time-delay models

To help you choose the right option for you, we’ll look at both time-delayed and proportional models in our guide to the best trailer camper brake controllers currently on the market.

5 Best Camper Trailer Brake Controller Options

Below, we’ll take an in-depth look at what our experts consider to be the very best brake controllers available, but if you don’t have time to read through those right now, here’s a brief overview of this year’s leading brands.

1: Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake control 

Integrated Plug-N-Play port for 2-plug adapters and Snap-in mounting clip allows user to remove and store the control when not in use.

For over fifty years, Tekonsha has carved out an enviable reputation for themselves as the leading brand in towing safety.

While the company earns much acclaim for their electrical wiring and trailer brakes, it’s with their premium-brand of proportional brake controllers that the Michigan-based company truly shines.

Widely regarded as the very best that Tekonsha has to offer, the 90195 P3 epitomizes everything that experienced drivers love about their electronic trailer brake controllers.

First of all, it’s a plug-and-play device which not only makes it a breeze to install but also means it’s one of the most adaptable electronic brake controller around. Should you choose to upgrade your camper trailer at any time, you can simply take the 90195 P3 out of the old one and pop it into the new one.

Then there’s the LCD display which is both easy to read and contains a wealth of information including battery voltage, brake diagnostics and more.

Our favorite feature is the patented boost feature which can be activated at the click of a button and provides extra braking power if you find yourself towing a heavier load or heavier trailer than usual.

That said, we understand that for many drivers, one of the key selling points is the small, compact design, ensuring that it doesn’t take up too much room on your dashboard.

If there’s any criticism to be levied at the 90195 Tekonsha P3, it’s the price.

Easily one of the most expensive camper trailer brake controllers around, we’ve yet to see a new one for less than $100. Still, as with most things in life, you get what you pay for with this model and in our estimation, it’s truly worth every penny.

Tekonsha 90195 P3 Specifications

• Type: Proportional Brake Control
• Display: LCD
• Weight: 1.32 lbs
• Number of Axles: 1 – 4
• Amazon rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Pros of the Tekonsha 90195 P3

• LCD display is very easy to read
• Plug-and-play port allows for use on multiple trailers
• Boost feature for heavier trailers.

Cons of the Tekonsha 90195 P3

• Price – this is perhaps the most expensive controller on the market
• More options than necessary for most average users.

2: Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2 Electronic Brake Control

Prodigy P2 features reverse battery protection for both vehicle and breakaway. Designed to work with electronic over hydraulic brake systems.

The fact that our experts had a seriously tough time deciding which of Tekonsha’s brake controllers should be ranked number one in our list speaks volumes about their unparalleled levels of quality and functionality.

In the end, the 90195 P3 won out, but only just. The 90885 Prodigy P2 was close -and we mean very close- second.

Like the 90195, the Prodigy P2 is plug-and-play, making it effortless to install, though you’ll likely need to buy the appropriate wiring harness to match your vehicle.

It also includes Tekonsha’s acclaimed boost function and a large LCD display providing a host of real-time information.

We particularly like the accelerometer for detecting inertia which adds a greater level of precision when it comes to braking pressure.

Suitable for controlling up to four axles, the P2 braking system offers one of the smoothest and most efficient braking force experiences imaginable, though be warned that this isn’t well suited to trailers with hydraulic brakes

Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2 Specifications

• Type: Proportional brake controller
• Weight: 0.8 lbs
• Number of axles: 1-4
• Amazon rating: 4.8 out of five stars

Pros of the Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2

• Boost feature for heavier trailers
• Real-time problem reporting

Cons of the Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2

• Not ideal for trailers with hydraulic brake systems
• Expensive cost.

3: Reese Towpower 7437711 Pod Brake Control

This 100% solid-state electronic with a small compact design mounts in any direction, no leveling required. Pre-wired plug-and-play feature allows for quick and easy connection to 2-, 4-, 6- and 8- brake systems.

While proportional brake controllers are typically easier to use and offer much more efficient braking, they’re also pretty expensive. As such, some budget-conscious drivers prefer to go for time-delayed controllers, an option which does sacrifice a little in the way of efficiency but is generally much easier on the wallet.

Even still, saving money doesn’t have to mean you get an inferior-quality product.

As one of the best time-delayed brake controllers we’ve seen, the Reese Towpower 7437711 Pod Brake Control more than holds its own against any model on our list.

Though the fact that it only works on two axles may rule it out as an option for some drivers, it is otherwise a very useful piece of kit.

A highlight for us is the slide adjustment which enables you to easily move between the many pre-calibrated settings. Of course, you can also create your own settings if none of those are suitable, and a manual override option does come built-in.

Unlike most brake controllers, this pod-style model doesn’t come with an LCD display, but it does at least feature a red indicator brake light which -though basic- serves its purpose well.

One of the more versatile controllers on our list, the 7437711 works on just about any vehicle and comes with a durable, easy-mount chassis and all the mounting hardware (mounting clip, wiring, brake light) included.

Reese Towpower 7437711 Pod Specifications

• Type: Time-delayed trailer brake control
• Display: LED indicator light
• Weight: 10.2 ounces
• Number of axles: 1-2
• Amazon rating: 4.3 out of five stars

Pros of the Reese Towpower 7437711 Pod

• Works with both electric and hydraulic trailer brakes
• Simple to install and use

Cons of the  Reese Towpower 7437711 Pod

• Lack of adjustment settings
• Doesn’t work with four-axle trailers

4: Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control

Utilizes Plug-N-Play port for 2-plug adapters. Self-diagnostics features will illuminate LED readout when issues occur.

Yes, Tekonsha is at it again with another premium quality proportional brake controller.

Look, we really did consider other brands when making our decision. Yet while the likes of Curt TriFlex, Draw-Tite, and Hopkins all came close with products of their own, none of them could quite match Tekonsha when it comes to functionality, flexibility, and enhanced features.

OK, so the Tekonsha 90160 Primus may not be quite as feature-rich as its higher-ranked counterparts, but it does still offer a handy knob for making several different brake adjustments and a very useful self-diagnostic tool which confirms whether or not the brakes are in good working order as soon as you switch the device on.

The only major drawback for some users is that while the more expensive proportional controllers support eight brakes over four axles, the Primus only supports six brakes over three axles.

Otherwise, there’s very little to complain about.

So why opt for the 90160 over one of the other two Tekonsha models featured in our list?

The simple answer is this:

It’s much more affordable.

Typically retailing for around $60 – $70 less than our number-one ranked 90195 P3, this extremely well-built piece of kit is the ideal option for those who want all the same levels of quality construction, ease-of-use and efficient braking that you’d get from a top-of-the-line Tekonsha without paying top-of-the-line prices.

Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Specifications

• Type: Proportional Brake Controller
• Display: LED
• Weight: 1 lbs
• Number of axles: 1-3
• Amazon rating: 4.7 out of five stars

Pros of the Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ

• Small, compact design that doesn’t take up much dashboard space
• Easy plug-and-play installation

Cons of the Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ

• Only supports three axles
• Fewer features than other models

5: Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV Electronic Brake Control

Illuminated LED output indicator and front display; view at almost any angle. Smooth and simple installation, Plug and Play feature allows quick and easy connection.

Last but certainly by no means least, we’d be remiss if we didn’t consider at least one other time-delayed controller.

This time, it’s the turn of Draw-Tite, whose 5504 Activator IV provides exceptional electronic brake control on trailers with up to four axles.

By far the biggest selling point is the ease and simplicity with which his one installs. Another plug-and-play device, the 5504 Activator IV takes no time at all to set up. It even comes with a series of pre-calibrated settings for applying different levels of force to your trailer brakes, meaning post-installation calibration takes hardly any time at all.

Perfectly suited as an entry-level brake controller for those new to towing a trailer, this very affordable time-delayed device does come with a wide-angle LED display offering lots of real-time diagnostic information on things like overload, open ground, and brake voltage, regardless of your tow vehicle.

Other than that, there isn’t much in the way of special features or fancy add-ons, that’s not what the Activator IV is all about.

This is a simple, no-frills piece of kit that does exactly what it’s designed to do, no more, no less.

The only real criticism with this one is the way that the 5504 Activator IV mounts to your vehicle.

We’ve read reports that this one simply isn’t compatible with some vehicles, while the biggest complaint among some users is the design.

Yes, this is small, compact and takes up barely any space, but since the buttons are positioned on top of the case rather than at the front or to the side, the only option is to mount it on top of the dashboard rather than underneath.

Still, if you’re happy with that and you’re looking for a quality brake controller at an affordable price, the 5504 Activator IV should at least be up for consideration.

Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV Specifications

• Type: Time-delayed
• Weight: 0.8 lbs ounces
• Amazon rating: 4.2 out of five stars

Pros of the Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV

• Affordable cost
• Wide-angle LED display with lots of information
• Plug-and-play capability means it’s very easy to install.

Cons of the Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV

• Dashboard mounting kit isn’t compatible with all vehicles
• Can’t be mounted underneath the dash.

So there you have it, a rundown of the five very best trailer brake controllers currently available.

Again, we’ll reiterate our point that the benefits of proportional controllers do far outweigh the excess costs. Not only are they incredibly easy to install, but they also require little if any post-installation set-up.

Rather than relying on a pre-calibrated setting in the way that time-delayed options do, proportional brake controllers instead use sensors to make real-time calculations about the amount of pressure needed for smooth braking.

This means that you can simply plug-in and set off on your journey instead of wasting lots of time making complicated calculations to get the right configuration for your trailer.

If you are going to look for a proportional style controller, then as our list easily attests to, Tekonsha is by far and away the best brand to look at, offering several premium quality options across a range of prices.

For our money, the Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake controller is incredibly hard to beat, but don’t rule out the Prodigy P2, or even the 90160 Primus IQ if pricing is an issue.

Speaking of pricing, what time-delayed options lack in effortless simplicity they more than make up for in low-cost affordability.

If you’re confident that you can manage braking on the road with a time-delayed model, then opting for either of the two devices on our list will save you money and keep you safe at the same time.

Frequently asked questions about camper trailer brake controllers

Finally, as promised, let’s address some of the more commonly asked questions that our readers have about camper trailer brake controllers.

Throughout this guide, we’ve referred to most of our favorite models as being easy to install, and for the most part, that’s true. It’s rare to find a brake controller that doesn’t come with a fully functional mounting kit (including mounting bracket) which attaches effortlessly on the dashboard. In some cases, depending on the style of the controller itself, you may prefer to attach it underneath so that you can keep your dashboard clutter-free. The only difficult part is when it comes to wiring. More often than not, brake controllers come with standard wiring that you need to mesh together with your trailer’s wiring. This often an arduous and complicated task. That said, installing your controller doesn’t have to be such a chore. Most manufacturers will provide special wiring harnesses specific to a towing vehicle model. Though these cost extra, they’re well worth the investment to make installation that much faster and simpler.

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Do Travel Trailers Have Brakes?

Published on November 28th, 2018 by Ray & Tammy Roman This post was updated on February 14th, 2021

Do travel trailers have brakes? Yes, most travel trailers come with electric brakes. The electric brakes are controlled by one of two methods. Either a surge device that is mounted on the trailer itself or a remote brake controller in the tow vehicle. The better braking systems have electric brakes on both axles whereas the less expensive ones have brakes on just one axle.

Not all travel trailers have brakes. What determines if they do or don’t is the gross weight of the travel trailer. Each state does vary on what is the weight limit that will require brakes. Typically it in the range of 2,000 to 3,000 lbs or higher. You should check with your state’s DMV to get accurate information.

What Kind of Brakes Do Travel Trailers Have?

On a travel trailer, you will typically find 2 types of brakes. Electric brakes and surge brakes. In addition in the US, you need to have what is called a ‘breakaway system”. Let’s take a closer look. Now that we’ve answered the question Do travel trailers have brakes? let’s take a look at what types of brakes you are typical in a travel trailer.

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Electric brakes.

Most travel trailers use electric brakes. They are activated via an electrical connection from the towing vehicle to the trailer. Some electric brake systems use a controller located on the brake pedal of the towing vehicle. The controller senses when braking is being applied and activates the travel trailer’s brakes as well. Some systems use an inertia switch that is typically mounted on the dashboard of the towing vehicle.

How Do Electric Travel Trailer Brakes Work?

Electric brakes use an electromagnet rather than hydraulic brake fluid. Once the brake controller is activated it sends a voltage back to the electromagnet in the brake. The magnets once energized stick to the armature area of the brake drum. The spinning of the drums pulls the brake shoes and pads unto the inside of the drum slowing down your travel trailer.

Check out the video below of how electric brakes work.

Surge Brakes

Travel trailer surge brakes do not require an electrical connection to the towing vehicle. These types of brakes work automatically and use hydraulics to apply the brakes. When brakes are applied on the towing vehicle the forward motion (momentum) of the travel trailer creates pressure on the surge coupler which puts pressure on the brakes master cylinder thereby applying the brakes.

The faster the tow vehicle slows down the more pressure is applied by the surge couple increasing the braking pressure on the pads. Once the towing vehicle begins to move forward pressure on the coupler is released and the brakes are released as well.

Breakaway Brake Systems

Federal laws in the United States require that travel trailers have a breakaway system that applied the brakes if the travel trailer becomes unhitched from the towing vehicle. If your travel trailer is equipped with electric brakes you will need an emergency back-up battery to energize the brakes once the travel trailer gets disconnected from the towing vehicle. If your travel trailer is equipped with a surge brake system a pull-pin or breakaway switch is required to engage the braking system.

How Long Do Travel Trailer Brakes Last

How long travel trailer brakes last depends a lot on driving conditions. A person who lives in a relatively flat area will not have as much wear on the brake pads as someone who lives in the mountains. To generalize this question, which we shouldn’t, it can be assumed that an electric travel trailer braking system can last about 3 years. It’s also assumed the system started off in good working order. 

Your best bet and the best safety advice I can recommend is to inspect your breaks before you head out on your trip. It is suggested that brake pads be replaced every 12 months or 12,000 miles.

Do Travel Trailers Have Brakes 

Enjoying your travel trailer also means staying safe. Understanding your travel trailer’s braking system, how to inspect and maintain it are all important aspect of owning a travel trailer. 

If you enjoyed this article check out my article on the best travel trailer brands .

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• HEARTLAND RVs GENERAL AREA
• Exterior Components - For all Heartland brands
• Axles, Brakes and Suspension

SOLVED: Weak trailer brakes after servicing

• Thread starter David-and-Cheryl
• Start date Nov 17, 2016

David-and-Cheryl

Well-known member.

• Nov 17, 2016

We just got our Landmark out of the shop after its annual service, which included repacking the bearings and inspecting the drum brakes, which were fine. We do a "tug test" every time we hitch up, to test both the integrity of the hitch coupling and the trailer brakes. Normally, when I hold the trailer brakes and release the brake pedal in the truck, the trailer brakes will hold the truck in place. When we started to leave the shop last night, though, the truck was pulling the trailer forward even with the trailer brakes engaged. The truck's panel indicated that the trailer was connected and the trailer brake controller was outputting the proper gain. We disconnected and reconnected the electrical umbilical cable a couple of times, with the same result. I then pulled the breakaway switch, and the trailer still rolled with the truck in Drive and at idle. So the problem is definitely on the trailer rather than the truck. The shop had closed by this time, but one of the senior techs happened to see us on the lot as he was leaving, and stopped to help me troubleshoot. He had actually done the QC inspection on our brakes and bearings. During the troubleshooting process, we noted that the trailer lurched a bit when we replaced the breakaway pin, indicating that the trailer brakes were in fact applied. But they clearly are not applying the same stopping force that they were before we had it in the shop. The tech said that they might need to be "reseated" by applying them at 20-30 mph to heat them up, or they might need to be self-adjusted which would happen during backing up. So we drove about 20 miles to our campground, doing both along the way. The brakes are working, but they are still very weak, not providing nearly the same stopping force that they did before the service. I felt the drums when we stopped, and all four were warm or hot. So, do I continue to drive the trailer and wait for the braking to improve on their own? Or do I need to take it back to the shop? If I do that, what is the most likely cause that they should look for?  

lynndiwagoner

Re: Weak trailer brakes after servicing I think they backed off the "star wheels" on the brakes so to get the hubs off for bearing maintenance. They need to go ahead and manually re-adjust the brakes. It would take a long time for the automatic feature to get them back to the previous adjustment.  

Jesstruckn/Jesstalkn

Re: Weak trailer brakes after servicing Take it back and make them adjust em. Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk  

Re: Weak trailer brakes after servicing Find a road that doesn't have traffic. Apply the brake controller manually with light braking to slow from 40 to 20 over 10-20 seconds. Repeat every mile for 10 times. If a seating or adjustment issue, brakes should start to improve. Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk  

Re: Weak trailer brakes after servicing If you do find greese on the brakes shoes, don't clean them!!! They must be replaced. Sent from my HTC Desire 610 using Tapatalk  

Jim.Allison

Re: Weak trailer brakes after servicing If you have EZ lube, and the technician used a pneumatic lube machine to lube the zerk he may have damaged your seals. I beg to differ/IMHO on the brake cleaning if they do have grease on them, brake clean will take grease off the shoe and make it usable again. I have washed them in tide soap and water and they looked and functioned like brand new. However if I paid someone to do the work, and they fouled the system because of poor workmanship, or failure to follow Dexter Axel's instructions for EZ-Lube then they would be buying a new set of shoes for me.  

• Nov 18, 2016

Re: Weak trailer brakes after servicing Thanks everyone. I talked with the tech and he says he inspected the shoes and drums himself for grease and dust before it was reassembled, so (hopefully) that's not the problem. His guess is an adjustment issue. He suggested trying basically the same self-adjustment procedure that Dan and others outlined--which I'll be doing when we move tomorrow--and if it doesn't work, to bring the rig back in on Monday for manual adjustment.  

Re: Weak trailer brakes after servicing IMO they should have adjusted them manually before it left the service facility. I haven't looked, but if the self adjusting brakes on RV's are like vehicles, then the self adjusting feature only works when in reverse. Each time you go in reverse and hit the brakes it moves the "star wheel" one click. Depending on how many clicks they loosened to get the drums off it could take many, many reverse/brake repetitions to get them adjusted. That's IF the self adjusting feature is working correctly. I know it's a PITA, but I would take it back. Good luck.  

lynndiwagoner said: IMO they should have adjusted them manually before it left the service facility. I haven't looked, but if the self adjusting brakes on RV's are like vehicles, then the self adjusting feature only works when in reverse. Each time you go in reverse and hit the brakes it moves the "star wheel" one click. Depending on how many clicks they loosened to get the drums off it could take many, many reverse/brake repetitions to get them adjusted. That's IF the self adjusting feature is working correctly. I know it's a PITA, but I would take it back. Good luck. Click to expand...

Re: Weak trailer brakes after servicing Interesting to know. I was too lazy to look at the Dexter instructions. Thanks Dan.  

• Nov 22, 2016

Re: Weak trailer brakes after servicing So here's what ultimately happened. The brakes continued to improve the more we drove the trailer, but I felt they were still a little weak, so I took the rig back to the shop. They checked the brakes and said all was OK except for adjustment. On three of the four wheels, the auto-adjustment mechanism was about to "click over", so the tech went ahead and advanced it. The fourth wheel wasn't generating as much braking action, so he adjusted that brake set. I then test drove the rig and it felt just like it used to. Thanks everyone who offered advice and solutions!  

justafordguy

• Nov 26, 2016

Me too! I probably overreacted, but better safe than sorry. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk  

I don't think you overreacted. The shop just did not adjust the brakes as they should have. Everything was mechanically OK but the "system" was NOT OK.  

Moved on to the next thing...

I'm done having dealerships work on anything . . . Always takes multiple trips to get anything done right.  

CoveredWagon

• Nov 27, 2016

David-and-Cheryl said: Me too! I probably overreacted, but better safe than sorry. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Click to expand...

Gary521 said: I don't think you overreacted. The shop just did not adjust the brakes as they should have. Everything was mechanically OK but the "system" was NOT OK. Click to expand...

Glad you solved your break problem. I will never will allow a dealer to do any work again. I wanted better breaking than what I had, so I solved it by having disk breaks installed at the Las Vegas Rally this year. Never will pull without disks breaks again. Once you pull with them you will know why.  

• Nov 28, 2016

mlpeloquin said: Once you pull with them you will know why. Click to expand...

TX_Clay said: Shouldn't that really say "Once you stop with them, you will know why? LOL Click to expand...

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Moscow Oblast, Russia GPS

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Product Details

Developer info.

• More apps by this developer

Product features

• 1. Fully offline map and navigation app that requires no internet connection.
• 2. 2D and 3D modes, multiple languages support.
• 3. Our compact vector map data makes this app much smaller.
• 4. Offline vector map data contains a large amount of accurate POIs.
• 5. Fast routing engine with turn by turn navigation support.

Product description

User data privacy, technical details.

• Access coarse (e.g., Cell-ID, Wi-Fi) location
• Access fine (e.g., GPS) location
• Access extra location provider commands
• Access information about networks
• Required to be able to access the camera device
• Open network sockets
• Read from external storage
• Record audio
• Access storage
• Access the vibration feature
• PowerManager WakeLocks to keep processor from sleeping or screen from dimming
• Write to external storage
• Allows sending in-app billing requests and managing in-app billing transactions

Customer reviews

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

No customer reviews

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Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• History of Russian Scarfs and Shawls Museum
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Pekhorka Park
• Balashikha Arena
• Drama Theatre BOOM
• Bykovo Manor
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Pavlovsky Posad Museum of Art and History
• Saturn Stadium
• Church of Vladimir
• Likino Dulevo Museum of Local Lore
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center
• Fairy Tale Children's Model Puppet Theater
• Fifth House Gallery
• Malakhovka Museum of History and Culture