Trailer Brakes?

[black03tb]

I use my 03 TB to tow a 5x8 cargo trailer filled with mobile DJ equipment pretty regularly (on average once a week). The GVWR of the trailer is 2500 lbs, I think it's about 800 dry. I estimate it's about 1700-2000 loaded. The trailer does not have it's own brakes, nor sway control. I try to be conscientious about loading the trailer correctly so the weight is distributed. I've got the 4.10 rear end and usually just leave it in D because whenever I'm on the freeway and put it in 3, I'm at like 3000+ rpm, which gets annoying after a while. The TB seems to handle it quite well, but since the TB is also my daily driver, I'm worried about wear and tear on my truck. Am I in good shape with this setup? Any tips?

[MattH]

In many states, that trailer would require brakes. I'd be concerned about towing that much weight without trailer brakes.

My popup camper had to have brakes, even though it's GVWR is only 1 ton.

When the brakes on my popup trailer failed, my stopping distance doubled (and it happened in rush hour traffic). Essentially, the trailer was pushing the truck; and the truck had to work MUCH harder to stop. With the trailer brakes, both vehicles are stopping at the same time, which means stopping distances not outrageously longer than what you would find without towing.

I wouldn't expect any major damage to the from not having trailer brakes, other than the increased wear on the entire braking system, and the increased driver stress with making sure to have enough braking room.

Hope this helps, Matt

[black03tb]

Thanks for the info. I definately notice longer stopping distances, but it never seems out of control. I have never heard of outfitting aftermarket brakes onto a trailer. How can it be legal to sell a trailer without brakes if states would require them???? :confused:

[muddy tires]

You are about the same weight as a loaded snowmobile trailer which I see hauled around by many lesser tow vehicles. I've never heard of one with brakes until you get into the much larger ones. You are fine.

[black03tb]

I did some homework on the topic. In Ohio, trailers are required to have their own brakes if they weigh 2,000 lbs. or more EMPTY. So legally, I am way under that limit - in fact only barely approaching that loaded.

[MattH]

Regarding state requirements for trailers and brakes: often the regs apply only for the registration of NEW trailers. That's how it is in NY.

Used trailers don't always have to play by the same rules. Depends on the state.

I have noticed a definite trend towards all new camping trailers coming with brakes from the factory, regardless of size; even the smallest of popups.

I haven't seen too many boat trailers or utility trailers with brakes, unless you get into dual axles, heavier weights, etc.

I've never heard of anyone retrofitting brakes onto a brake-free trailer. It would be a LOT of work, with not a lot of benefit for you. It seems you've got a good handle on the driving behavior of your trailer.

Over the years I've owned a trailer, I have noticed a trend of states lowering the minimum weights for having brakes. I would not be surprised if some day just about every new trailer will need brakes. But that day's not here yet!

Hope this helps, Matt

[Spong]

I agree with Muddy Tires, 2000lbs loaded is nothing. People tow boats all the time way heavier than that with vehicles lesser than a TrailVoy. I have a 5x12 Utility trailer that weighs 1100lbs empty. I just ordered it new in 2005 and I got the brakes on it. Not because it's a heavy trailer but mainly because it was only like a $120 option (way less than adding later) and I regularly would haul 2000-2250lbs of rock on it and towed it with my Jimmy. The Trailblazer handles the trailer much better than my Jimmy did. I probably wouldn't have bothered with the brakes if I had the TB back when I bought the trailer.

To make a short story long, I wouldn't worry about it. Your Trailblazer, especially with the 4.10 rear end can handle that much weight easy. If you ever buy a new trailer, then I'd maybe spring for the brakes at that point.

Steve

[Rob]

I tow a 5000 pound boat without trailer brakes. 2500 pounds is nothing. You just have to learn to give yourself more stopping distance.

[ScarabEpic22]

I tow a 5000 pound boat without trailer brakes. 2500 pounds is nothing. You just have to learn to give yourself more stopping distance.
I would not do that if I were you, it takes long enough with brakes to slow my 4K boat with 4 disc brakes. And, your brakes are going to need to be replaced much sooner with all that extra mass.

Im not saying stop doing it, but personally I would get at least some brakes, even if it was only on the front axle (tandem trailer) or middle (triple).

[2002BlkLTZ]

I would not do that if I were you, it takes long enough with brakes to slow my 4K boat with 4 disc brakes. And, your brakes are going to need to be replaced much sooner with all that extra mass.

Im not saying stop doing it, but personally I would get at least some brakes, even if it was only on the front axle (tandem trailer) or middle (triple).

I agree with Eric here. While the TB will tow that weight no problem, it wasn't designed to stop it in a hurry. Generally I say to each his own, but I sure wouldn't want to be the one driving that at 40 miles an hour when a kid or a motorcycle or what have you decides to jump out in front of me. :no:

[kendico]

I also agree, I wouldn't pull anything over 2000-2500 without trailer brakes. I have a 2000 lb. boat that doesn't have brakes and I have to be thinking stopping distances at all times. I have a 18' dual-axle covered trailer, that loaded is about 3000 lbs., it has brakes and is a pleasure to pull.

Pulling on a wet road without brakes is a whole other story!!