How To Wire The Electric Brakes On A Trailer

By | March 17, 2015



How To Wire The Electric Brakes on a Trailer



When it comes to towing a trailer, proper wiring of the electric brakes is essential for a safe and successful journey. Knowing how to wire up the electric brakes correctly can save you time, money, and potentially avoid an accident or fine. Having the correct wiring setup before you hit the road will help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Whether you are new to wiring electric brakes or just need a refresher, this guide will help you understand how to wire your trailer brakes in the most efficient way possible. We will cover the basics of wiring electric brakes, types of brake systems, different wiring methods, and more. By the end of this guide, you will be an expert on how to wire the electric brakes on a trailer.

Types of Electric Brake Systems



When it comes to wiring electric brakes, it is important to know which type of brake system your trailer has. There are two main types of electric brake systems: the surge brakes, which use the weight of the trailer to activate the brakes; and the electric over hydraulic brakes, which use an electromagnet to activate the brakes. Each system has its own wiring requirements, so it is important to know which type of brake system you have before attempting to wire them up.

Surge Brakes



Surge brakes are the most common type of electric brake system. They use the weight of the trailer to activate the brakes, and they are easy to install and maintain. The wiring process for surge brakes is fairly simple, as they only require three wires to be connected: one to the hot side of the battery, one to the cold side, and one running to each wheel. Additionally, a breakaway switch needs to be wired into the system so that the brakes will activate in the event of a trailer separation.

Electric Over Hydraulic Brakes



Electric over hydraulic brakes are more complex than surge brakes, as they require an electromagnet to activate the brakes. Therefore, more wires and components are required in order to properly wire the brake system. The process involves connecting a power wire from the battery to an electric brake controller, and then wiring the controller to the electromagnet. Additionally, a breakaway switch needs to be wired into the system so that the brakes will activate in the event of a trailer separation.

Wiring Methods



There are two main ways to wire your trailer brakes: Direct Wiring and Universal Wiring. Direct Wiring is used when your trailer has a single axle and only requires one electric brake to be wired. This method involves connecting the power wire to the brake wire directly to the battery, and then connecting the brake wire to the brake controller. Universal Wiring is used when the trailer has multiple axles, or if you want to install new brakes on a trailer that already has electric brakes installed. This method involves running a power wire from the battery to the brake controller, and then wiring the controller to each individual brake.

Conclusion



Knowing how to wire the electric brakes on a trailer is essential for safe and successful towing. Whether you are new to wiring electric brakes or just need a refresher, this guide should help you understand how to wire your trailer brakes in the most efficient way possible. By understanding the various types of electric brake systems, wiring methods, and other components involved in wiring electric brakes, you can ensure your trailer is safe and ready to hit the road.


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