Can I Install Brakes On Only One Axle Of A 2 Axle Trailer And Which Axle Should They Go On?

Published 07/14/2023

Question:

I noticed that you installed the breaks on the front axle, is there anything wrong if you install the brakes on the rear axle?

asked by: Juan C

Expert Reply:

If you are only putting brakes like the # TRU36FR on one axle, we recommend doing the front axle for a few reasons.

First, the front axle technically will bear more weight than the rear. Most trailers it would be about 60% on the front axle and 40% of the trailer weight on the rear. Since the front axle bears more weight this effectively gives it more braking power.

Secondly with the way tandem axle suspension flexes (especially leaf spring axles), the front axle is actually pushed into the ground when braking. This makes the front axle the more effective braking axle.

expert reply by: Jesse M