Brakes are important because they allow us to control the speed of our vehicle and to stop safely. They are also important for
preventing accidents. When we brake, the friction between the brake pads and the rotors converts the kinetic energy of the
vehicle into heat energy, which slows down the vehicle. If the brakes were not there, the vehicle would continue to move at its current speed until it collided with something.
Brakes are also important for controlling our vehicle in slippery conditions. When the road is wet or icy, the friction between the tires and the road is reduced. This makes it more difficult to stop the vehicle, so it is important to apply the brakes early and gently in these conditions.
In short, brakes are essential for safe driving. They allow us to
control our speed, stop safely, and avoid accidents. We should always inspect and maintain our brakes regularly to ensure that they are working properly.
There are three main types of brakes for trailers: surge brakes, electric brakes, and hydraulic brakes.
The simplest type of trailer brake. They work by using the weight of the trailer to apply the brakes. When the tow vehicle slows down, the trailer begins to push forward. This pushes a piston in the surge brake, which applies the brakes. Surge brakes are not very effective, but they are inexpensive and easy to install.
Are more effective than surge brakes. They work by using an electric actuator to apply the brakes. The actuator is connected to the tow vehicle's brake system, so when the tow vehicle brakes, the trailer brakes also brake. Electric brakes are more expensive than surge brakes, but they are also more effective.
Are the most effective type of trailer brake. They work by using hydraulic fluid to apply the brakes. The hydraulic fluid is pumped to the brake calipers, which apply the brakes. Hydraulic brakes are the most expensive type of trailer brake, but they are also the most effective.
| Type of Brake | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surge Brakes | Simplest type of trailer brake. Work by using the weight of the trailer to apply the brakes | Inexpensive, easy to install | Not very effective, can be jerky when braking |
| Electric Brakes | More effective than surge brakes. Work by using an electric actuator to apply the brakes | More effective, can be synchronized with tow vehicle brakes | More expensive, more complex to install |
| Hydraulic Brakes | Most effective type of trailer brake. Work by using hydraulic fluid to apply the brakes | Most effective, can be used on very heavy trailers | Most expensive, most complex to install |
The type of brake that is best for a trailer depends on the weight of the trailer, the type of trailer, and the driving conditions that the trailer will be used in. For most trailers, electric brakes are a good option. They are effective and relatively inexpensive. However, for trailers that are very heavy or that will be used in difficult driving conditions, hydraulic brakes may be a better option.
The different parts of a trailer brake system include:
The actuator is the component that applies the brakes. It can be either electric or hydraulic.
The brake drums or rotors are the parts that the brake pads press against to slow or stop the trailer.
The brake pads are the components that create friction with the brake drums or rotors to slow or stop the trailer.
Brake shoes are used in drum brakes. They are similar to brake pads, but they press against the inside of the brake drum.
Brake fluid is used in hydraulic brake systems. It is pumped to the brake calipers, which apply the brakes.
The brake calipers are the components that hold the brake pads and apply pressure to them.
The wiring harness connects the actuator to the tow vehicle's brake system.
Magnets are used in some trailer brake systems to sense when the tow vehicle brakes.
A breakaway switch is a safety device that automatically applies the trailer brakes if the trailer becomes disconnected from the tow vehicle.
Brake pads are the components that create friction with the brake rotors to slow or stop the vehicle. They are typically made of a material that is designed to wear away over time, so they need to be replaced regularly.
Brake rotors are the parts that the brake pads press against. They are typically made of metal and can become warped or damaged over time, so they may need to be replaced as well.
Calipers are the components that hold the brake pads and apply pressure to them. They can become corroded or damaged over time, so they may need to be replaced as well.
Brake fluid is the fluid that is used to transmit pressure from the brake pedal to the brake calipers. It can become contaminated or old over time, so it should be flushed and replaced regularly.
Other brake replacement parts can include brake shoes, wheel cylinders, and brake lines.
The frequency with which you need to replace your brake replacement parts will depend on a number of factors, including the type of brake system you have, the driving conditions you encounter, and your driving habits. However, it is generally recommended to have your brakes checked and inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic.
No matter what replacement part you need for your trailer brakes. East Idaho Trailer Parts can help. Call today to get the parts you need.
East Idaho Trailer Parts is a leading supplier of trailer parts, including brakes.
We have a wide selection of brake parts to choose from, including brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, brake fluid, and brake shoes.
Get help from a team of experts.
© 2024 East Idaho Trailer Parts. Privay Policy | Terms of Use
