Brake Basics for Trailers

A trailer is a powered road vehicle that is towed behind a powered vehicle by a cable. It is most commonly used for the transportation of materials and goods. It can be pulled by an automobile, tractor or car. In order to get the best trailer, you need to follow the tips mentioned below.

First of all, always have on hand a second hand trailer if it is not available with a tow vehicle. The weight on the trailer will depend on how much stuff you want to transport. This is why you need to know how much the trailer will carry before buying it. You can calculate this weight using the following equation: tonne/wheels loaded at 5th wheel/axle = the weight of the trailer.

Before buying your trailer, ensure that it has adequate safety chains. Safety chains are available at most trailer dealers and they ensure that the trailer tows properly. You should also make sure that the brakes work properly. You need to check the brake fluid in order to ensure that your trailer works properly.

Next, check the vehicle identification number or VIN of the trailer you plan to purchase. VIN numbers of motor vehicles are listed in the owner’s manual. It usually has the model, make and year of the trailer. Be aware that some trailers have multiple model numbers so double check the VIN number before purchasing.

Check the amount of air pressure in the tires. Air pressure is essential for good traction on snow covered roads. Always replace the tires that sag because of lack of air pressure. Make sure that the tires are inflated properly to avoid skid marks when traveling on the road.

Lastly, when you are purchasing the tires, remember to choose the right type of tire for you. If you are using a truck tire, choose a low profile tire with a small air volume. If you use a car tire, choose a larger diameter tire with a larger air volume because a bigger diameter tire would indicate higher speed rating which would correspond to a faster trailer.

Choose trailer tires that would be able to support your weight and maximum load. This means that the tires should be able to withstand not only highway speeds but also higher loading rates. Pay special attention to the size and weight of the tires. Trailer towing requirements vary from state to state and on the basis of your gross weight.

So how do the size and weight affect the speed rating of the tire? The size of the tire would signify how much the wheel can rotate. A bigger diameter tire would translate to a smaller overall wheel diameter, which would allow you to accelerate more quickly. A lighter tire with the same weight as the trailer would also allow the wheel to rotate faster.

On most standard motor vehicles, electric brakes can work quite well on trailers. However, if you own a commercial vehicle, it would be wise to upgrade to drums instead. Dampede drums offer smooth braking and are made of rubber. For standard trailers, drums are fitted with air-bags to provide adequate braking power. However, if your vehicle comes with standard front and rear brakes, then upgrading to electric brakes can improve braking power considerably.