Replacing trailer brakes should be relatively straightforward if the system fits with
the recommended components from your axle manufacturer. Lubrication of
replacement bearings with grease suitable to your axle type is also essential.
Most electric trailer brake issues that cannot be corrected through conventional
adjustments or synchronization procedures are due to electrical malfunction, making
voltmeters an essential tool for troubleshooting these issues.
Cost of Parts
Depending on the type of trailer brakes you own, depending on state laws you may
need to replace all or some parts of the system’s parts such as hubs, assemblies and
controllers as well as breakaway switches and batteries.
For brake controllers, look to established brands such as Tekonsha, Dexter or
REDARC for optimal results. Their vast experience making these parts could make
them your best bet; there are also more modern brands entering the market with
innovative solutions for brake control systems.
When installing a brand-new system, it is best to hire a professional to ensure
everything gets installed properly. This means using appropriate gauge wire and
charging the breakaway battery before attaching and using your brake controller on
the tow vehicle’s wiring harness – finding a place on which the wires can reach their
plug is essential to proper connection of both.
Cost of Labor
Labor costs associated with installing trailer brakes vary based on who and where is
installing them, but most reputable shops can give an estimate over the phone.
Make sure to shop around before settling on any one service shop, trailer store or family mechanic.
Electric trailer brakes offer superior control and faster stops compared to surge
brakes, which typically become activated only when your towing vehicle
decelerates. Plus, these require less maintenance and are more durable.
The Tekonsha Brake Controller is an excellent option for trailer brakes, offering nine
sensitivity levels to choose from and an LED display to make setup and usage
simple. Plus, its manual override and boost feature offers additional stopping power when necessary.
Cost of Brake Controller
If your trailer features hydraulic brakes, a brake controller should be added at an
extra cost of $300-$1000. Reputable companies such as U-Haul offer this service at
their stores for an additional fee; please call ahead of time for specific store pricing lists.
Proportional brake controllers utilize accelerometers to measure how much pressure
is being applied on a truck’s brake pedal and then send proportionate amounts of
power through to trailer brakes to ensure both stop at the same time.
CURT Manufacturing has introduced a wireless bluetooth trailer brake controller that
eliminates the need for installation. This device connects directly to both 7 pins of
both your trailer and tow vehicle before pairing with your phone app to allow
adjustments of settings. It provides buyers with an ideal alternative who wish to
avoid paying an installation cost for having a controller installed.
Cost of Brake Shoes
Bendex, Raybestos, Akebono and Hawk all offer high-quality brake shoes suitable for
disc and drum brake applications. Furthermore, square brake mounting plates with
four holes should be used to connect each brake assembly securely to. Furthermore,
an effective towing vehicle should feature both a brake controller and breakaway
system to activate trailer in case it becomes separated from towing vehicle.
Most travel trailers equipped with electric drum brakes require new brake linings
every one to three years, depending on driving conditions and frequency of usage.
You may require more frequent servicing if driving over long distances or taking
steep mountain roads is frequent; or sooner replacement due to towing heavy loads.
Check your owner’s manual for recommended maintenance intervals which may
differ accordingly.