How Your Trailer Brakes Are Impacting Your Tow Vehicle Brakes
May 2nd, 2017
Welcome to Performance Trailer Braking! Today, we would like to discuss the importance of a trailer brake system that can meet your needs. Your brakes are the only thing stopping your trailer from pushing your vehicle somewhere it really shouldn't go, whether that be over the railing of a mountain ledge or just into an intersection at a red light. Now, when it comes to choosing the right trailer brake system, you need to know your vehicle towing capacity, as well as the GVWR of your trailer.
When Brakes Are Needed
Different states have laws regarding what brakes are required, but everywhere has a law that will dictate what weight requires what level of brake power. Check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to figure out what the requirements are for trailer brakes in your state. Federal law dictates that trailers over 2,999 lbs. GVWR require brakes on at least one axle.
The closer your trailer's GVWR is to the tow vehicle's towing capacity, the bigger the impact upgrading your braking system will have on your stopping distance. Any trailer that you can feel push the tow vehicle is putting excessive stress to your tow vehicle's braking system. The stopping distance can become excessive for you to slow down safely, the brakes may overheat from working too hard, and you may begin to swerve from side to side to control the trailer, creating a risk for those around you on the road, as well as yourself and your passengers.
Choosing Your Trailer Brake System
Regardless of your braking choice, properly operating brakes on your trailer will save the brakes on your tow vehicle, as well as make travel much safer. You will no longer worry about braking in time, nor will you be concerned about your brakes overheating. Shop our kits today to find the right choice to meet your needs. Your safety depends on it!
"I can’t say enough good things"
I can’t say enough good things about the people at Performance Trailer Braking out of Norman, OK. (405-626-7009) They shipped all the parts to us ahead of time, stuck to their price qu Read Moreotes, and got it all installed in one day. Alyssa Bateman did all the coordinating. Preston Wilmoth, the installation. His assistant was a no-show, so instead of a 5 1/2 hour day, he worked 10 hours straight. Before leaving at almost 10pm, Preston tested the brake pump and electrical connections, went over how everything works with us, and explained all the warranties. Usually he would go with the customer on a test drive, but we weren’t keen on doing that at that late hour! The next morning we looked under our rig and it was like he was never there — no grease spills, metal shavings, nothing. He took all the boxes and old parts away as well.
Joe H
Galveston, TX
"Couldn't be happier"
I just want to say that your installer Chris is AWESOME! He arrived on time, finished two hours early, answered all my questions, and did a test run that was mind boggling. Couldn't be h Read Moreappier. In addition, had 3-4 follow up questions over the next month. I texted Chris and he didn't just text back, he called me within minutes! You've got a very satisfied customer and I'll be referring others in our camping posse who are considering disc brake upgrades. Well done!
Brian Guimond
Spokane, WA
"Attention to detail and professional manner"
I attended one of Dennis' seminars at a Grand Design rally. There were so many in attendance that had an excellent personal experience with Dennis' work that I was immediately comfortabl Read Moree with his recommendations.
I was so convinced that he was the only one I wanted to do my suspension upgrade that I towed my rig all the way from CA to UT so we could catch him.
Yesterday, Dennis installed Slipper Springs on my 2022 Grand Design Solitude 310GK-R. His attention to detail and professional manner was the best I have experienced.
To make it even better, Dennis is just a nice guy to do business with. I highly recommend his services.
David C
CA