What Trailer Weight Requires Brakes

Expert Reply:

In the USA a tandem axle utility trailer with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 7500-lbs should have brakes installed. Any trailer over 3000-lbs must have brakes on all wheels in most states, but laws do vary. Some states require braked axles on trailers with a GVW as low as 2000-lbs; other states have a higher limit. It is best to check with authorities in your local area.

The weight of the tow vehicle can come into play here too. Often the gross weight of any such trailer without brakes is not to exceed 40% of the gross weight of the towing vehicle.

Trailer brakes should be selected based on the axle weight rating. For example, for a trailer with two 3500-lb axles the appropriate drum brakes are the 10 x 2-1/4-inch size like electric brake kit # AKEBRK-35-SA and hydraulic brake kit # AKFBBRK-35.