Can Surge Trailer Brakes Compensate for Lighter and Heavier Trailer Weights
Question:
We build trailer systems with tanks and have a customer asking for hydraulic brakes. Typical setup is tandem axle system with 3500lb axles. When the tanks are empty the trailer weight is around 3200lbs, full 7000lbs. Any concern with a 7500 lb hydraulic actuator working pulling a 3200lb trailer? Will the actuator work properly at both weight settings? Electric brakes a better option?
asked by: Matt D
0
Expert Reply:
The great thing about surge brakes like the Hydraulic Trailer Brake Kit # AKFBBRK-35 that you referenced is that since they use inertia to apply the trailer brakes they do compensate for differences in trailer weights. So if you had a heavier trailer they would apply harder and for a longer time than if you were to use a lighter trailer where the trailer wouldn't be pushing on the surge actuator as hard. Electric brakes offer more adjustability but they aren't self contained like the surge systems are so there's a bit of a trade off.
For a 7,000 lb surge trailer actuator the Demco part # DM62VR would work great too.
expert reply by: Jameson C
0
Question:
For trailer units that are frequently DOT inspected are hydraulic surge brakes acceptable without utilizing the cab brake controller as required with electric brakes? Otherwise are you required to go with the electric/hydraulic set up for new construction?
asked by: Matt D
0
Expert Reply:
Surge brake systems are perfectly legal and would pass DOT inspections. You might check with your local DOT just to be sure but everything we have seen from DOT and FMCSA shows they are perfectly legal.
expert reply by: Jameson C
0
Products Referenced in This Question
Demco Hydraulic Brake Actuator w/ Electric Lockout - Disc - Zinc - 2" Ball - 7,000 lbs
- Brake Actuator
- Surge Brake Actuator
- Straight Tongue Coupler
- Bolt-On
- 7000 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Ball Coupler
- Disc Brakes
- Electric Lockout
- Demco
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Hydraulic Trailer Brake Kit - Uni-Servo - Free Backing - 10" - Left/Right Hand - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Brakes
- Hydraulic Drum Brakes
- Camper
- Car Hauler
- Utility Trailer
- Free Backing
- 10 x 2-1/4 Inch Drum
- 3500 lbs Axle
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- etrailer
more information >
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