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Posted by Dan Shockley [12.2.142.13] on Monday, July 19, 2010 at 06:23:39 :
In Reply to: Surge Brakes = Junk. Old Technology ntxt posted by Paul(in NY) [12.64.126.81] on Sunday, July 18, 2010 at 12:46:34 :
Surge brake technology has continued to improve along with electric brake technology. Electic brakes are still very rarely used on boat trailers, etc due to corrosion issues. And the systems and more air/water tight and have less maintanance issues than previous generations.
I just built a new trailer for my 26' hackercraft. The total trailer weight isn't too high at 6000#, but it has 4 wheel disc (stainless steel) surge brakes and it works really well. The surge brake control is complete with 5th wire reverse lock-out which is connected to the reverse lights! And, it stops the trailer with excellent precision. What a wonderful braking system. Here in the UK almost all trailers are surge brakes.
We have also had extensive experience with electric systems, and they have their place, as well. All of our utility trailer and farm trailers, now have electric brakes. The biggest issue is that these trailers ( up to 24k GTW) have a very hard life. The electic brakes seem to hold up pretty well, though usually once a year, one of the trailers needs to have brakes rebuilt.
They both have their place, but surge brakes provide great service. And, as outlines below, there is no DOT issue with surge brakes. There is no way that all major boat companies would be installing any product that didn't meet the letter of the law.
Have a great day,
Dan
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