Electric Trailer Brakes

Electric trailer brakes are probably the most widely used form of trailer axle brakes. There simplistic design has proven to be inexpensive yet very reliable. They are typically used in trailers with axles of 10,000 lbs or less.

Electric brakes use an electrical current sent from the tow vehicle to energize a magnet. This magnet attaches to a linkage arm which applies the brakes. The amount of voltage sent from the tow vehicle dictates how much braking is applied.

Electric brake components include a brake controller located in the towing vehicle which is connected to the brake light switch under the brake pedal. When the brake pedal is depressed it sends a signal to the brake controller which then sends a regulated amount of voltage through the trailer light plug to the brakes. The voltage passes through the trailers wiring system and into the magnets located inside of the brake assembly and sticks itself to a flat surface on the brake drum. These magnets, usually one on every wheel, are connected to an arm which provides the leverage required to force the brake shoes outward against the brake drums. This friction is what stops the wheels from spinning.

Electric trailer brake assemblies come in right and left hand versions. Each version is configured so that very little leverage is utilized from the brakes actuating arm as the wheels spin in reverse. This allows for very little brake pressure in reverse making it easier to back up with your trailer.


*** Photo of a typical electric brake assembly ***

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