Electric Trailer Brake Systems & How They Work

What are Electric Trailer Brakes?

When it comes to towing, we all appreciate the best braking system to assure safety of both the driver and other road users. Electric trailer brake systems offer significant advantages over traditional surge brakes by providing a more responsive and efficient braking experience. With countless advantages electric trailer brakes have rightfully gained popularity among towing enthusiasts.

If you are looking for a smoother and more controlled towing experience, consider upgrading to an electric trailer brake system for your next journey. Keep on reading to find all the basics for trailer brake systems.

Electric trailer brake systems are used in towing to improve performance of braking. Simply, when a driver applies the brakes in the towing vehicle, the controller sends an electric signal to the trailer’s brakes. This enables synchronized and smooth braking while also enhancing the safety and control of towing.

How do Electric Brakes Work?

Electric trailer brake systems are used in towing to improve performance of braking. Simply, when a driver applies the brakes in the towing vehicle, the controller sends an electric signal to the trailer’s brakes. This enables synchronized and smooth braking while also enhancing the safety and control of towing.

On a more technical level, these brakes function by converting electrical current from the brake controller into mechanical force, which applies the trailer brakes. The level of braking force is determined by the amount of current sent to the brakes, the higher the current, the stronger the braking.

The key components of an electric trailer brake system include:

1. Electric Brake Controller: This device is installed in the towing vehicle and is responsible for sending electric signals to the trailer’s brakes. Modern electric brake controllers offer various adjustment options, allowing the driver to control the trailer’s braking intensity.
2. Electric Brake Assemblies: These are the actual brakes installed on the trailer’s wheels. When the brake controller sends the electric signal, the brake assemblies engage, slowing down the trailer.
3. Wiring and Connectors: A wiring system connects the electric brake controller to the brake assemblies on the trailer. A secure and properly functioning wiring system is essential for the system’s effectiveness.

Types of Electric Brakes

The two main types of electric trailer brake systems are: proportional and time delayed.

Firstly, proportional brake controllers use sensors to detect the intensity of braking in the towing vehicle. They adjust the trailer brakes accordingly, therefore naturally maintaining a proportional relationship. This results in a smoother and more responsive braking experience while eliminating any major sway of the trailer.

Advantages are:

1. Smooth and seamless braking experience.
2. Provides better control and reduces the risk of trailer sway.
3. Automatically adjusts to changes in driving conditions and trailer weight distribution.

The other option is time-delayed brake controllers. This type will engage the trailer brakes after a predetermined delay once the driver applies their brakes in the towing vehicle. Although less advanced than proportional controllers, they remain a suitable choice for smaller towing scenarios.

Advantages are:

1. Simple and easy to use, with straightforward manual adjustments.
2. Suitable for smaller trailers with consistent loads.

The choice between the two depends on the size of the trailer, the weight being towed, and the desired level of braking control. To summarise the difference between the two; proportional brake controllers offer smoother and more controlled braking, while time-delayed controllers are simpler in operation and are often used for smaller trailers.

Where Can I Purchase Electric Brakes?

You can view our electric brakes and accessories by clicking the button below. We have a wide range of quality parts to suit your needs

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Benefits of Electric Trailer Brake Systems