bing tracking image
Q & A Icon

Will Having Brakes On Both Trailer Axles Cause Brakes to Lock Up if Applied When Trailer is Unloaded  

Question:

Will brakes on 2 axles on a 18 foot utility trailer unloaded lock all 4 wheels?

0

Expert Reply:

It possibly could with the trailer unloaded, but you can adjust your brake controller to prevent this from happening.

Just after the brake controller has been installed, you'll want to do some dry runs towing the trailer in a large parking lot or somewhere you won't have to deal with traffic. Accelerate to 25 or so, and with the power on the controller set halfway, actuate the manual brake switch on the controller fully. If the brakes lock up, lower the power. If the braking power was poor, increase the power. I'd recommend doing this with an empty and a fully loaded trailer, so you'll know how to set the controller according to the weight of the trailer.

If there's a large disparity in the weight of the loaded and unloaded weight of the trailer, you'll need to adjust the controller accordingly before pulling the trailer.

I'd recommend consulting the owner's manual that was included with the controller. You'll want to follow the controller manufacturer's recommendations regarding setting up the controller.

expert reply by:
0
Mike L

Product Page this Question was Asked From


Q & A Icon

Continue Researching

See More Q&A Expert Answers >>