Why Would Trailer with Surge Brakes be Harsh On Roads

Updated 09/16/2025 | Published 08/30/2025

Question:

I tow a 2000 lb travel trailer with a 2” hich and a rattle reducer thing. On smooth roads all is fine, no banging. But going over bumps in road like crasks is awful. I can feel trailer pulling and pushing on car - I do not know whether force is in and out or up and down. Looks like convert-a-ball or curt rocker are options? Which works best for bumpy roads? No issues accelerating and deceleraring. I have hydraulic brakes on trailer.

asked by: Jill O

Expert Reply:

Hey Jill, are the brakes on the surge trailer coming off and on possibly and that's what your feeling? That would be a bad shock in the surge actuator which we can help with if we know which actuator you have.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Jameson C.

9/12/2025

Hey Jill, did you have a chance to check if the brakes on your trailer are causing the issue? I'm happy to help you find a solution if you're still experiencing problems.

Jill

9/12/2025

@JamesonC I have no realistic way to determine if the pushing-pulling when driving over rough road is caused by brakes - but you could be correct - the trailer is 13 years old and it seems possible the braking system dampener is broken now. But I now living where there is no dealer or reputable shop. I would have to get a mobile RV tech. It is a very interesting hypothesis though - but regardless - is the Convert A Ball something to try - would it help dampen pulling if the brakes were the root cause?