Surge Brakes vs Electric

[ToddPhilly]

Is there any particular advantage or disadvantage to surge vs electric brakes on a car trailer?  I found a trailer I'm interested in, but it has surge brakes.  I've noticed most around the track have electric with a brake controller.  What do you guys think?  Any concerns?  Are surge legal in PA for a car trailer?

Thanks!
Todd

[ninjabones]

Here's a recent thread on Rennlist that discussed this issue at length

 

http://forums.rennlist.com/rennforums/ra...ight=surge

[ToddPhilly]

Thanks G!

[rcsmith611]

They are legal in PA. 

[catchacab]

I have a Trailex open trailer with surge brakes.   I have had it for 7 seasons and am very happy with it.  I like not having brake controller problems.  Just hook it up and drive. 

[Darren]

I was on that Rennlist thread too, but my take is this -- if you trailer more than 70 mph then you should go electric.  If you're going to go speed limits, then it doesn't matter so much and surge breaks are less trouble.

Trailer wiring is like the Bermuda Triangle of electronics, lights, brakes, etc, all go at random times.  If you have a small truck and go slow, then surge brakes insure you'll always be safe.

[ToddPhilly]

Well the deal on the trailer I was looking at with surge brakes fell through, but based on what you guys are saying - surge may be the way to go.  I like the 'no hassle' benefit.

[catchacab]

The key to safe trailering is to take it slow, and short trips initially. Your choice of tow vehicle is important. Don't do what I did and go to mid Ohio as my first trailering experience.

Todd pm me your phone number if you want to talk about it. Darren and the rest of us who trailer are good resources. You will get many different opinions and experiences from us. Open vs closed. Aluminium Vs steel. Electric vs surge. New vs used.

[ninjabones]

This is the best concise resource I've found on trailering-related issues. Great read.

 

http://www.sherline.com/lmbook.htm