Do I Need Brakes On Both Axles of a Car Hauler Trailer?

Published 12/13/2019

Question:

Do you have to put brakes on both axles or can you just add on one axle

asked by: Royce M

Expert Reply:

In some situations, brakes can be installed on only one axle of a tandem axle trailer, however you should first check your state laws to see how many brakes are required for the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of your tandem axle trailer. Some states require a specific number of brakes based on the maximum weight capacity of a trailer.

If you are allowed to install brakes on only one axle, which axle you install them on depends on what type of axles you have on your trailer. If you have torsion axles, you'll want to install the brakes on the front; if you have a tube axle, you'll want to install them on the rear axle. In either case, you'll want to make sure that you have brake mounting flanges welded on to the spindles to make them compatible with brake assemblies.

If you can let me know your axle capacity I can help you find the appropriate brake assemblies for your car hauler trailer. I've also linked one of our helpful articles on the parts needed to add electric brakes to your trailer.

expert reply by: Erik B