Trailer Brakes

The first decision is which actuation system fits your trailer and how you tow. Both types are proven and both are available at Location Remorque Laval.

• Electric brakes are the most common choice for utility, cargo, equipment and travel trailers. An in-cab brake controller sends a variable 3 to 12 volt signal to electromagnets inside each drum, so braking force is adjustable and proportional to how hard you press the pedal. They are affordable, easy to service and integrate with modern proportional controllers.
• Hydraulic brakes come in two forms. Surge (self-actuating) brakes are built into the tongue and need no wiring, they use the trailer's own momentum to generate 600 to 1,200 psi, ideal for boat trailers and rental units towed by different vehicles. Electric-over-hydraulic systems combine a controller signal with a hydraulic pump for powerful, smooth stops on heavy loads.

Not sure which suits your rig? Our team will help you decide based on your tow vehicle, load and use.

We supply individual parts and complete assemblies so you can repair one axle or outfit an entire trailer.

• Complete brake kits including backing plates, shoes, springs and magnets, sized for common 3,500 lb, 5,200 lb, 6,000 lb and 7,000 lb axles.
• Brake drums and hubs in standard bolt patterns, plus bearings, seals and races for a full rebuild.
• Electric drum internals, magnets, shoe-and-lining sets and adjuster hardware for wear replacement.
• Disc brake conversions, calipers, rotors and stainless components that resist corrosion, the best option for boat and marine trailers.
• Actuators, brake controllers, breakaway kits and hydraulic lines to complete or upgrade any system.

Trailer brakes must be rated for your gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), the total weight of the trailer plus its maximum load. Under-rated brakes overheat, fade and wear out quickly.

• Match total brake capacity to your loaded GVWR, and always size to the axle rating, not just the empty weight.
• In Quebec, a trailer with a net weight over 1,300 kg (about 2,860 lb) generally requires an independent braking system, so most mid-size and heavy trailers need brakes on at least one axle, and heavier units on both.
• Tandem and triple-axle trailers should have brakes on every axle for balanced, safe stopping.

Tell us your GVWR and axle count and we will spec the right brakes.

Getting the right part the first time saves time and money. Trailer brakes vary by diameter (10" and 12" are most common), bolt pattern, axle spindle type and left/right side. Before ordering, check your current drum diameter, the number and pattern of studs, and whether your system is electric or hydraulic. If you are converting from drum to disc, you may also need a new actuator or controller. Not sure what you have? Send us a photo or your axle information and our team will confirm the correct components for your trailer before you buy.

Regular maintenance keeps your brakes reliable and extends their life. We recommend inspecting brakes at least once a season and before long trips.

• Check shoe and lining thickness, drum wear and magnet condition, replace worn parts in pairs across the axle.
• Repack wheel bearings and replace seals, especially on boat trailers submerged in water.
• Test the breakaway battery and switch, and verify controller output and wiring connections.
• Adjust brakes for even engagement and inspect hydraulic lines for leaks.

Prefer to have it done for you? Our Laval shop handles brake repair, maintenance, reinforcement and custom modifications for customers across Laval, Montreal and the North Shore. Call 450-232-7828 to book service or order parts.