In many states, trailers with a GVWR of 1,500 pounds or more are obligatory to have brakes on all wheels. Most automobile manufacturers propose trailer brakes be used with even lighter weights. There are two basic kinds of brakes on trailers: surge brakes and electrically-activated brakes. Most trailers have surge brakes, which are triggered after the automobile’s brakes have slowed the trailer. Surge brakes are often wrecked by dunking, although newer models have flushing devices that offer some protection. Electric brakes, which are linked to the automobile’s brakes, are also susceptible to dunking.
