What Trailer Weight Requires Brakes
Question:
should i install electric brakes on a dual axel utility trailer. gross trailer weight 7,500 lbs
asked by: Jay W
Expert Reply:
In the USA a tandem axle utility trailer with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 7500-lbs should have brakes installed. Any trailer over 3000-lbs must have brakes on all wheels in most states, but laws do vary. Some states require braked axles on trailers with a GVW as low as 2000-lbs; other states have a higher limit. It is best to check with authorities in your local area.
The weight of the tow vehicle can come into play here too. Often the gross weight of any such trailer without brakes is not to exceed 40% of the gross weight of the towing vehicle.
Trailer brakes should be selected based on the axle weight rating. For example, for a trailer with two 3500-lb axles the appropriate drum brakes are the 10 x 2-1/4-inch size like electric brake kit # AKEBRK-35-SA and hydraulic brake kit # AKFBBRK-35.
Products Referenced in This Question
etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 10" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 3.5K
- Trailer Brakes
- Electric Drum Brakes
- Standard Grade
- Self Adjust
- 10 x 2-1/4 Inch Drum
- 3500 lbs Axle
- etrailer
more information >
Hydraulic Trailer Brake Kit - Uni-Servo - Free Backing - 10" - Left/Right Hand - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Brakes
- Hydraulic Drum Brakes
- Standard Grade
- Free Backing
- Manual Adjust
- Single Servo
- 10 x 2-1/4 Inch Drum
- 3500 lbs Axle
- 14 Inch Wheel
- 14-1/2 Inch Wheel
- 15 Inch Wheel
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
35 Ft 4-Way Trailer Wiring Harness - Wishbone Style - 42" Ground
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- 31 Feet and Longer
- Plug and Lead
- 4 Flat
- Optronics
more information >
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