X5 Trailer Hitch Help

[LeMansX5]

Originally Posted by boskone

I think the owner's manual states you need trailer brakes for anything over 1600lbs.

Unless the trailer has surge brakes.

[DinanX5]

Originally Posted by LeMansX5

Unless the trailer has surge brakes.

What are surge brakes?

[Jeremy]

Originally Posted by DinanX5

What are surge brakes?

Surge brakes are a self-contained braking system on the trailer. When the tow vehicle applies braking force, pressure is exerted on an actuator in the trailer tongue which activates a hydraulic braking system. They are common on U-haul type trailers and boat trailers.

Also, the tow weight at which trailer brakes are required varies considerably from state to state. For example, it is 1500lbs in CA, but 3000lbs in NJ.

[DinanX5]

Originally Posted by Jeremy

Surge brakes are a self-contained braking system on the trailer. When the tow vehicle applies braking force, pressure is exerted on an actuator in the trailer tongue which activates a hydraulic braking system. They are common on U-haul type trailers and boat trailers.

Also, the tow weight at which trailer brakes are required varies considerably from state to state. For example, it is 1500lbs in CA, but 3000lbs in NJ.

Thanks Jeremy - very interesting... do surge brakes work as well as a brake actuator system hooked up to the tow vehicle?
Good to know that NJ requires brakes over 3000 lbs... do you by chance know what the standard is in PA?

[Jeremy]

Originally Posted by DinanX5

Thanks Jeremy - very interesting... do surge brakes work as well as a brake actuator system hooked up to the tow vehicle?
Good to know that NJ requires brakes over 3000 lbs... do you by chance know what the standard is in PA?

I looked it up and PA is 3000 lbs. here

The electric vs surge question is almost like asking if Ford or Chevy is better. There are good arguments for both sides and it depends on your application. at any rate, most times the type of braking system you use is whatever came with the trailer.

[DinanX5]

Originally Posted by Jeremy

I looked it up and PA is 3000 lbs. here

The electric vs surge question is almost like asking if Ford or Chevy is better. There are good arguments for both sides and it depends on your application. at any rate, most times the type of braking system you use is whatever came with the trailer.

Thanks again, Jeremy.
If surge brakes are as effective as electric brakes (that require an aftermarket brake controller), then I'd be inclined to look for a trailer w/ surge brakes...!