Installing Electric Trailer Brakes on Customized Fabricated Trailer

Question:

Hello I have been thinking about purchasing Ironton Heavy-Duty Trailer Kit — 5Ft. x 8Ft Item# 37552 From Northern Tool to make into a TearDrop Camper. My question is I live in NY and any thing over 1000 lbs. requires electric brakes. What would I need to comply with NYS law? Thank you.

asked by: Jason

Expert Reply:

A good starting point is the linked article concerning the process of adding electric brakes to a trailer.

Just as there are brake requirements for trailers over a certain weight, there may also be lighting requirements based on trailer size and profile that you will need to consider as well. I suggest you check with your local highway patrol or other NY-based resource to confirm all legal requirements for trailers like the one you intend to build.

As noted in the article you will need to have brake flanges on your axles. If not in place you will need to have these welded on by a qualified welder. The flanges must be welded square and concentric. You'll also need to select hub-and-drum assemblies rated adequately for your axle that use the same bolt pattern as on your wheels and the same bearings as those in the kit to ensure they will fit your spindles. You will also need a brake controller for your tow vehicle to operate the brakes on the trailer.

The article includes a table that lists common combinations of components based on axle size and capacity.

expert reply by: Adam R