Can Trailer Brakes be Used if they are Rated Higher than the Axle

Updated 02/12/2018 | Published 02/09/2018

Question:

I have the feeling getting a set of brakes rated lower than the axles would be generally bad news, but is there either benefit or detriment to, for instance, using 3000 lbs brakes on a 2200 lbs axle?

asked by: Query D

Expert Reply:

Assuming the brakes used will fit the trailer the only issue you might run into when using brakes rated higher than the axle capacity is they may be too aggressive. However this can be overcome by adjusting the brakes themselves and/or turning down the power output on a brake controller (for electric brakes).

expert reply by: Michael H