How Your Trailer Brakes Are Impacting Your Tow Vehicle Brakes
May 2nd, 2017
Welcome to Performance Trailer Braking! Today, we would like to discuss the importance of a trailer brake system that can meet your needs. Your brakes are the only thing stopping your trailer from pushing your vehicle somewhere it really shouldn't go, whether that be over the railing of a mountain ledge or just into an intersection at a red light. Now, when it comes to choosing the right trailer brake system, you need to know your vehicle towing capacity, as well as the GVWR of your trailer.
When Brakes Are Needed
Different states have laws regarding what brakes are required, but everywhere has a law that will dictate what weight requires what level of brake power. Check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to figure out what the requirements are for trailer brakes in your state. Federal law dictates that trailers over 2,999 lbs. GVWR require brakes on at least one axle.
The closer your trailer's GVWR is to the tow vehicle's towing capacity, the bigger the impact upgrading your braking system will have on your stopping distance. Any trailer that you can feel push the tow vehicle is putting excessive stress to your tow vehicle's braking system. The stopping distance can become excessive for you to slow down safely, the brakes may overheat from working too hard, and you may begin to swerve from side to side to control the trailer, creating a risk for those around you on the road, as well as yourself and your passengers.
Choosing Your Trailer Brake System
Regardless of your braking choice, properly operating brakes on your trailer will save the brakes on your tow vehicle, as well as make travel much safer. You will no longer worry about braking in time, nor will you be concerned about your brakes overheating. Shop our kits today to find the right choice to meet your needs. Your safety depends on it!
"Simply Amazing"
My wife and I would like to thank you for your time and effort to get your product installed on our 5th wheel RV. The difference the disc brakes make is simply amazing. In addition to Read Moreexpressing my appreciation to Performance Trailer Braking, I need to thank you for linking me up with Dennis Hageman, Sonchaser RV, to do the installation. He made the process simple and our time at his place was wonderful. To be able to park the rig and stay there while he worked his “magic” is not typical.
Glenn S.
Ohio
"After the Sale..."
Hi Michael,
I would like to thank-you for all the assistance that I received after the sale of the brake conversion Kits. The brakes are working great.
Gordon R
Dansville, NY
"Excellent and efficient installation"
Dennis installed 8k axles and disc brakes on our Montana this March while we were in the desert. He did an excellent and efficient installation. He was completed in about 6 hours and lef Read Moret my site perfectly cleaned up. He does great work.
Todd B
Fulltime RVer