Is There any Adjustability with Trailer Surge Brakes

Published 09/05/2018

Question:

I saw another QandA on this topic in your QandA section: The Title was: ...Trailer Brakes Dragging on Downhill Runs with a Demco Disc Brake Actuator... Obviously engine braking will cause pressure on the actuator and of course apply the brakes. BUT.... Is there a pre-loadinch built in so the brakes are actuated only when there is a fairly strong braking action? Not just moderate engine braking? If not, even modest but long downhills with engine braking will overheat the brakes. Trailer manufacturers I have contacted will not sell a trailer in the state of Colorado with surge brakes because of this overheating problem. I have wired a switch from my cars dash to actuate the bypass valve. So for long hills I can disable the brakes by flipping the switch. I also considered wiring in a relay so that the bypass solenoid stays on and will prevent all braking unless the brake lights come on. I did not try this, but it seems reasonable. Seems like there should be a better way built in to the actuator? ? Do ANY of the brake actuators allow pre-setting a spring pre-load so the brakes dont come on until there is substantial braking? Adjustable?

asked by: Curt G

Expert Reply:

Surge brakes do not have any adjustability. If you want to use them on steep hills your solutions would be best. Or you can look into an electric over hydraulic setup which will allow you to use a brake controller to activate the brakes. This gives you total flexibility and control.

I attached a help article to this page that would walk you through the entire process of adding EOH brakes to a trailer like yours.

expert reply by: Jameson C