Would Increasing Trailer Brake Assembly Capacity Increase Braking Power

Updated 04/07/2016 | Published 04/05/2016

Question:

Id like to replace/upgrade my Montana brakes to get better braking power. Axles are 2x D52-8. Can I simply upgrade to the 6000lb 12 inch never adjust without any other changes, just bolt on? If yes, do I need 2 or 4?

asked by: Joel G

Expert Reply:

You have a 5,200 lb rated 8 lug hub on your trailer. Simply upgrading your brake assemblies to a higher rated set would not solve your problem unless the issue is you are overloading current assemblies. Going with higher rated assemblies when not needed typically just makes the brakes harder to actuate properly. They end up wanting to grab too hard or not enough. Most likely the issue is related to something else.

I would check the main ground for the trailer. This is the wire that runs from the trailer connector to the trailer frame and provides the ground for the entire trailer. The ground strap may have come loose and now may not be strong enough to fully apply the trailer brakes.

The brake assemblies may also not be adjusted properly. You will want to have the adjustment screw tightened to the point where the wheel locks up and then back it off 10 clicks. Check out the video I attached at the 4:25 mark.

expert reply by: Jameson C