Trailers with electric brakes are becoming increasingly popular. Electric brakes are more efficient, and they provide better stopping power than hydraulic brakes. But to use electric brakes, you need to install the wiring harness and connect it to your vehicle’s electrical system.
What are electric brakes?
Electric brakes are a type of trailer brakes that use electricity to activate the brakes. When you press the brake pedal in your vehicle, a signal is sent to the trailer’s electric brake controller, which then sends power to the brakes on the trailer, causing them to activate. The amount of power sent to the brakes depends on how hard you press the brake pedal.
Electric brakes are more efficient than hydraulic brakes because they don’t rely on fluid pressure to activate. This means that they have a faster response time, and they provide better stopping power.
Components of an electric brake system
An electric brake system consists of three main components: the electric brake controller, the wiring harness, and the brakes themselves.
The electric brake controller is the device that sends power to the brakes on the trailer. It’s usually installed in the cab of the vehicle, and it’s wired into the vehicle’s electrical system.
The wiring harness connects the electric brake controller to the brakes on the trailer. It’s usually installed along the frame of the trailer, and it consists of several wires and connectors.
The brakes themselves are similar to regular drum brakes, but they have an electromagnet inside that activates when power is sent to them. The electromagnet pulls the brake shoes against the drum, causing the trailer to slow down or stop.
How to wire electric brakes
Wiring electric brakes can be a bit complicated, but with the right tools and instructions, it’s a manageable DIY project. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather the necessary tools and materials
You’ll need a few tools and materials to wire electric brakes:
- Electric brake controller
- Wiring harness
- Wire strippers
- Wire crimpers
- Tape measure or ruler
- Drill and drill bits
- Zip ties
Step 2: Install the electric brake controller
The first step is to install the electric brake controller in the cab of your vehicle. The controller should come with installation instructions, but here are the general steps:
- Find a suitable location for the controller, usually within easy reach of the driver.
- Mount the controller using the included bracket.
- Connect the controller to the vehicle’s electrical system using the provided wiring harness.
- Test the controller to make sure it’s working properly.
Step 3: Install the wiring harness
The next step is to install the wiring harness on the trailer. Here are the general steps:
- Determine the length of wiring harness you need by measuring the distance from the electric brake controller to the brakes on the trailer.
- Install the wiring harness along the frame of the trailer using zip ties or other fasteners.
- Connect the wiring harness to the brakes on the trailer using the connectors provided.
- Test the wiring to make sure it’s working properly.
Step 4: Adjust the electric brake controller
Once the wiring is installed, you’ll need to adjust the electric brake controller to ensure that the brakes on the trailer are working properly. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by driving the vehicle and trailer on a flat, level surface at a slow speed.
- Apply the brakes in the vehicle, and watch the trailer to see if the brakes engage.
- If the brakes don’t engage, increase the power to the electric brake controller until the trailer starts to slow down.
- If the brakes engage too quickly, decrease the power to the electric brake controller.
- Continue adjusting the power until the trailer brakes engage smoothly and stop the trailer without causing it to skid.
FAQs
What size wire do I need for electric brakes?
The size of wire you need for electric brakes depends on the length of the wiring harness and the amperage of the brakes. A general rule of thumb is to use 10-gauge wire for lengths up to 30 feet, and 8-gauge wire for lengths up to 50 feet. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific brakes to determine the correct wire size.
Can I install electric brakes myself?
Yes, you can install electric brakes yourself with the right tools and instructions. However, if you’re not comfortable working with electrical systems or if you’re not confident in your abilities, it’s best to have a professional install them for you.
Do I need an electric brake controller?
Yes, you need an electric brake controller to use electric brakes. The controller sends power to the brakes on the trailer, and it’s necessary for the brakes to function properly.
How do I know if my electric brakes are working?
You can test your electric brakes by driving the vehicle and trailer on a flat, level surface at a slow speed and applying the brakes. The brakes on the trailer should engage smoothly and stop the trailer without causing it to skid. If the brakes don’t engage, or if they engage too quickly or too slowly, you may need to adjust the electric brake controller.
How often do I need to replace my electric brakes?
The lifespan of electric brakes depends on how often they’re used and how well they’re maintained. Generally, electric brakes should last for several years before needing to be replaced. However, if you notice any signs of wear or if the brakes aren’t functioning properly, it’s best to have them inspected and replaced if necessary.
Conclusion
Wiring electric brakes can seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and instructions, it’s a manageable DIY project. By following the steps outlined in this article and consulting the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific brakes, you can install electric brakes on your trailer and enjoy the benefits of improved stopping power and efficiency.
