When you are shopping boat transport trailers for sale, you have a lot of things to consider. However, nothing is more important than stopping power and this is why the brakes you choose are an important decision. Many quality trailers come with more than one brake option. Here are some of the most common types and reasons to choose or not to choose them.
Electric Brakes
Electric operated brakes are some of the most common brakes you’ll see today. They work well and are the most economical choice. However, you must be very careful if you use electric brakes in saltwater. In fact, you should clean the brakes right after each saltwater submersion. Electric type brakes are subject to corrosion and this can create major problems over time.
Hydraulic Surge Brakes
As you check out boat transport trailers for sale you may come across the option of hydraulic surge brakes. A surge braking system is very similar to automotive brakes. The basic stopping principle is the same, but they are designed to work automatically when the towing vehicle brakes. A special master cylinder works on the force of deceleration and applies pressure to the system.
Air Brakes
Large trailers towing large and heavy vessels may benefit from air brakes. Instead of fluid, the system uses compressed air. They offer a fail-safe feature because air brakes work even if leaks in the system develop.
Disc or Drum Brakes?
You may have the option of choosing disc instead of drum brakes with some boat transport trailers for sale. Drum brakes have been around for a long time and are very economical. However, they can become overheated since they are enclosed and when water gets in it will stay there for some time, increasing the chances for corrosion.
Disc brakes are out in the open and dissipate heat rapidly. This is an important feature if you plan to tow your vessel on steep or winding roads (like in mountainous areas). Disc brakes stay cool and when they get wet, the water is easily dispelled and evaporated. Here are some additional benefits you can receive from disc brakes:
- No adjustments needed – drum brakes may need regular adjustments but disc brakes adjust automatically.
- Low maintenance
- Self cleaning
- Enhanced stopping power
- Easy to inspect
- Talk to your Boat Professional
As you check out boat transport trailers for sale, discuss things like brakes with your boat professionals. If you choose a trusted source, you will have all the assistance you need before, during and after the sale.
