Trailer brake systems play a significant role in ensuring the safety of trailers and the vehicles towing them. In this post, we’re laying out the different types of trailer brake systems, their key components, and the mechanics behind how they work. What Are the Three Types of Trailer Brake Systems? Let’s start by taking a …
Trailer
Even if many people don’t know exactly what it’s called, pretty much everyone knows what an ordinary trailer coupler looks like. It’s that thing with the rounded top at the very front of nearly every travel trailer (or boat or utility trailer, for that matter) that sits directly onto a trailer hitch ball. We’ve all …
In a recent post, one of our readers asked about the benefit of a dual-axle trailer vs single-axle trailer for hauling with their large SUV. (Thanks Jane!) We answered her question in general, but the differences are considerable. So, today we’re covering the differences between single- and dual-axle trailers (also called “tandem” or “tandem-axle” trailers), …
If you’ve ever asked yourself “Do I need a breakaway cable on my trailer?” you’ve come to the right place. You may have seen our post on how to connect a trailer breakaway cable, but are braking systems for trailer breakaways required? In this post, we address this question specifically as it pertains to the …
Many people who tow a trailer may not be aware of the impact proper trailer hitch height has on their towing experience… and their safety. There are many things to know when towing a travel trailer (or any type of trailer, for that matter), and hitch height is only one consideration. If you don’t maintain …
If you use use a manually-operated handle to crank the tongue jack of your travel trailer up and down, you might have found yourself wondering why no one has invented an electric trailer jack that works with the push of a button. Well, it just so happens that electric jacks are indeed a thing, and …
Shortly after we published our post entitled “What Is Tongue Weight and Why Is It Important?”, we noted a comment from a reader who suggested that we write a post specifically dedicated to methods for trailer sway control (thanks, Eric!). So, in today’s post, we’re looking straight at trailer sway – what it is, how …
When you’re traveling down the road hauling a trailer or a 5th wheel (or any other kind of open/enclosed trailer), various weights factor into your towing experience and, more importantly, to your safety and the safety of everyone traveling the roads with you. Many people are well aware of what terms like GVWR (gross vehicle …