Ultimate Guide To Trailer Brake Systems
Hauling a heavy load, whether using a car hauler, equipment trailer, or a tiny house trailer, requires reliable brakes to ensure a safe trip, especially in wet conditions or mountain roads. While electric brakes are standard on most flatbed trailers, including Bigfoot Trailers, understanding different brake systems can be crucial when renting or comparing trailers from other manufacturers. To help make your hauls safer, here’s Bigfoot’s Ultimate Guide to Trailer Brake Systems.
Types of Brake Systems
Most flatbed trailers, including Bigfoot Trailers, come standard with electric brakes that draw power from the tow vehicle. These brakes work differently from those in your car or tow vehicle. The following are the three most common types:
Electric Drum Brakes
These brakes are the industry standard for flatbed trailers. They use magnets to press shoes against a rotating drum, slowing the trailer. This system provides excellent stopping power, especially when towing heavy loads, and is known for its durability in various driving conditions.
Electric Over Hydraulic Drum Brakes
This braking system uses an electric signal to trigger a hydraulic mechanism. When the driver applies the brakes, the electric signal activates the hydraulic system, which generates pressure. This pressure pushes the brake shoes against the interior surface of the drum, creating the necessary friction to slow or stop the trailer.
Electric Over Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Similar to the brakes in your car, an electric signal triggers hydraulics, but instead of drum shoes, calipers squeeze brake pads against a disc rotor. As the driver applies the brake, the electrical signal from an in-cab controller travels to the hydraulic actuator, which generates pressure in the brake lines. This pressure causes the calipers to move, pressing the brake pads against the disc rotor. The friction created between the pads and rotor slows down the trailer.
Bigfoot’s Self-Adjusting Trailer Brake System
Bigfoot Trailers takes safety further by installing all their trailers, from the car-hauling 7K model to the heavy-duty 25.9K Super Beast Deckover, with Dexter Self-Adjusting Brakes. This innovative technology eliminates the need for manual brake adjustments, ensuring optimal performance and safety on haul after haul.
Benefits of Self-Adjusting Brakes
- Reduced Maintenance: No more crawling under your trailer to adjust brakes – these systems automatically maintain the proper gap between the pads and drum, extending their lifespan.
- Consistent Braking Power: With the correct gap maintained, braking performance remains consistent throughout the life of the brake pads.
- Trailer Safety: Optimal braking power is crucial for safe hauling. Self-adjusting brakes ensure your trailer slows and stops effectively, regardless of terrain or load.
Trailer Brake Maintenance
Regardless of their type, regularly inspect your trailer brakes for wear or damage. By maintaining your trailer’s braking system, you can ensure a safe haul with every load.
Local Regulations
While this guide provides essential information on trailer brake systems, it’s crucial to remember that trailer brake regulations vary from state to state. When crossing state lines or national borders, check local laws to ensure compliance.
Bigfoot Trailer Sales & Service
Bigfoot delivers superior bumper pull trailers with premium self-adjusting brake systems for all your hauling needs! As a factory-direct manufacturer, we provide service in the entire Eastern United States with locations in Concord, NH; Hartford, CT; Norfolk, VA; Springfield, MA; and by appointment with retailers in Fort Myers and Marianna, FL. Contact us for a free quote.
