Which axle should trailer brakes be on?

front axle
Typically trailers will carry more of their weight on the front of the trailer, so you would want to put the brakes on the front axle as it will most likely carry more weight while braking. Also, when braking, weight will shift forward from the inertia of the stop, so that would put more weight on the front axle.

What is the best setting for trailer brake controller?

Tekonsha recommends setting the power setting for its unit at “6” for a starting point. This means that with the trailer attached and the engine running, the operator pulls the manual override lever on the controller all the way to the left—maximum brake.

Do trailer axles have a direction?

An axle without idler hubs would not have a left or right side assigned to it. It could basically be ran either direction. If it has brake assemblies installed though then it would need to face the right direction. Otherwise you’d have to swap the assemblies since the assemblies are directional.

What’s the difference between surge brakes and hydraulic brakes?

In contrast, Surge Brakes are hydraulic and use the trailer’s natural momentum to actuate the brakes. When you step on the brake in your tow vehicle and slow down, the trailer pushes against the hitch and presses a hydraulic cylinder. When they are adjusted properly, surge brakes are smooth and easy to work with.

Do I need trailer brakes on both axles?

With all of this in mind, we always recommend adding brakes to both axles of a tandem axle trailer. When just one axle of a tandem axle trailer is equipped with brakes your tow vehicle is going to be doing a lot of the work when applying the brakes.

How do you calibrate a brake controller?

To calibrate a brake controller, make sure the vehicle is parked on a level surface. Then, plug your trailer into your tow vehicle. The brake controller will then calibrate. Most brake controllers are self-calibrating.

Do trailer axles have a left and right?

There IS a left and right on standard axles. They should be marked L and R on the backing plate. The wire (going into the backing plate) will also be behind the tube, not in front.

Can a trailer axle be installed backwards?

Expert Reply: It doesn’t matter as much which way the axles are facing but sometimes axle can be upside down. There is a bow in the center of the axle that should be facing up when weight is applied to them they straight out.