New trailer build

[bumperm]

Regarding the axle/brake thing. Most states require two brake axles over 3500 lbs gvw capacity. The states that require one, like my state, do not conform to fed requirements and if you go across state lines that can create an legal issue...and fall under federal interstate statutes. . . . /QUOTE]

After owning a single axle braked tandem trailer for 20 years, I finally got around to putting brakes on the second axle. Huge improvement, especially when hauling heavier loads such as a TLB. Brakes on both axles also means they are not working so hard. Given the modest cost, about $150 or so for two (ebay w/free shipping), doesn't seem like it makes much sense to go without the additional braking capability.

I also added an aluminum utility box to the front of the trailer for chains and chocks, and installed an electric jack. Mounted a small solar panel to the box top and a sealed lead acid battery inside the box to power the jack as well as the break-away emergency brake which is also required in my state.

BTW, I thought the electric jack was a bit of overkill, but now that I have it I really like it a lot - - seems decadent to stand there and adjust the tongue of the trailer with one's fingertip!

bumper

 

[pjb09]

Regarding the axle/brake thing. Most states require two brake axles over 3500 lbs gvw capacity. The states that require one, like my state, do not conform to fed requirements and if you go across state lines that can create an legal issue...and fall under federal interstate statutes. . . . /QUOTE]

After owning a single axle braked tandem trailer for 20 years, I finally got around to putting brakes on the second axle. Huge improvement, especially when hauling heavier loads such as a TLB. Brakes on both axles also means they are not working so hard. Given the modest cost, about $150 or so for two (ebay w/free shipping), doesn't seem like it makes much sense to go without the additional braking capability.

I also added an aluminum utility box to the front of the trailer for chains and chocks, and installed an electric jack. Mounted a small solar panel to the box top and a sealed lead acid battery inside the box to power the jack as well as the break-away emergency brake which is also required in my state.

BTW, I thought the electric jack was a bit of overkill, but now that I have it I really like it a lot - - seems decadent to stand there and adjust the tongue of the trailer with one's fingertip!

bumper

I'm only putting 3500# on the trailer and hauling with a 1 ton dually so 1 brake axle should do it. If I find it's not enough later it's only a couple hours works to change to brake hubs.

 

[bumperm]

Not meaning to be argumentative, so let me apologize in advance if this seems so:

Going with one axle brakes may be perfectly legal and work very well for you - maybe. But again, considering the quite modest cost, *why not* go for as much braking capability as is reasonably possible for your rig? You may never need it, towing with that big dually . . . but then again, being able to stop even quicker in an emergency might well make the difference - maybe. Also, emergency braking in on surfaces with lower coefficients of friction, wet, icy, snow, etc. it is handy not to have your trailer attempt to pass you up. Having all wheels with brakes back there is not a bad idea. Did I mention it doesn't cost much? :c)

bumper
Disclaimer: I might be biased on all of this, being a former motorcycle cop and accident investigator I've seen my share.

 

[pjb09]

Not meaning to be argumentative, so let me apologize in advance if this seems so:

Going with one axle brakes may be perfectly legal and work very well for you - maybe. But again, considering the quite modest cost, *why not* go for as much braking capability as is reasonably possible for your rig? You may never need it, towing with that big dually . . . but then again, being able to stop even quicker in an emergency might well make the difference - maybe. Also, emergency braking in on surfaces with lower coefficients of friction, wet, icy, snow, etc. it is handy not to have your trailer attempt to pass you up. Having all wheels with brakes back there is not a bad idea. Did I mention it doesn't cost much? :c)

bumper
Disclaimer: I might be biased on all of this, being a former motorcycle cop and accident investigator I've seen my share.

No offense taken. My truck has the braking capacity to handle 4000# plus in the box and I'm only putting 3500# on the trailer and it has the capacity to brake 3500#. I have more brake capacity than brake need. If I needed to haul the trailer and load the truck box I would need the extra brake axle. If I find the need to transport more weight I can add the extra brakes in 2 hours for about $150.

Seven years ago on my way to Florida in Feb. Hauling a 9000# camper we hit black ice and went thru a guard rail in New Brunswick. Trailer had dual brake axles, but on the ice I might as well have had no brakes all. Trailer started to jack nife as we left an overpass. Applied trailer brakes with controller in attempt to straighten the rig. Made no difference. At 60 the truck and trailer were going where they wanted to on the ice. Took out 80 ft of guard rail and destroyed 80 grand of truck and trailer. Fortunately no injuries. Brakes only work on a surface that the tires can create friction with.

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

When figuring weight, you have to include the weight of the trailer, which is upwards of of 1200 lbs or more I'd suspect...As far as trailer braking, they have anti lock systems now, which should be put on any nice camper.

 

[pjb09]

When figuring weight, you have to include the weight of the trailer, which is upwards of of 1200 lbs or more I'd suspect...As far as trailer braking, they have anti lock systems now, which should be put on any nice camper.

I have factored in the trailer about 1800 lbs. I have never heard of anti lock on a travel trailer. For it to work properly it would have to work in conjunction with the truck antilock which would mean connecting to the trucks computer. How would that be done? Would be a nice feature.

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

Here.

 

[pjb09]

Here.

Thanks

Interesting to see if trailer dealers in this part of the world are installing them.

 

[fordmantpw]

I have factored in the trailer about 1800 lbs. I have never heard of anti lock on a travel trailer. For it to work properly it would have to work in conjunction with the truck antilock which would mean connecting to the trucks computer. How would that be done? Would be a nice feature.

With the integrated trailer brake controllers on newer trucks, there is integration with the truck's ABS.

 

[94BULLITT]

The trailer is looking good. Is it going to have an open center?