Towing a trailer means you need to make sure you have a proper braking system and the correct trailer hitch brake light system, turn lights, and more.
The type of braking system you will need will depend on what your tow vehicle is and what type of trailer you are towing. If your trailer has a load weight that is more than 1500 pounds in most states or provinces you will be required to have a separate braking system as well as a breakaway switch.
This breakaway is located on the tongue of the trailer and it’s purpose is to engage the trailer brakes should the trailer and tow vehicle become separated.
There are two common braking systems that are used. Electronically controlled brakes can provide either manual control or automatic control trailer brakes. The tow vehicle must be equipped with a control device and wiring for the electrical power controlled by a control box that is located near the driver. It can be automatically or manually applied and it can be adjusted.
Surge brakes are independent hydraulic brakes that are activated by a master cylinder and they aren’t controlled by the actual hydraulic fluid in the braking system of your vehicle. In fact they should never be connected together directly. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Next you need to deal with your trailer wiring which will include the taillights, marker lights, turn lights, backup lights, and brake lights. You need to ensure that you have correctly installed your wiring harness and that all areas are functioning correctly. Of course all the components are extremely important but none more than your brake lights.
Towing your trailer can be a simple process and you also want it to be a safe process so be sure to ensure that your trailer hitch brake light system is correct as well as the braking system itself.
Online has a great selection of towing parts. You can easily find just about towing supplies you’ll need including a full line of braking systems and trailer hitch brake light systems.
