Braking systems

For many years now, caravans and camper trailers have been fitted with electric brakes. These braking systems are efficient and easy to maintain.

However, to enable the electric trailer brakes to function an electric brake controller must be installed in the towing vehicle. This is a job that should be left to an auto electrician or someone experienced with electrical systems in modern cars.

While there are several different types of electric brake controllers available, the most efficient ones have a feature known as motion sensing. This involves a pendulum that can determine exactly the amount of braking that the trailer has to do to ensure a smooth safe stop.

Once a brake controller is adjusted correctly the driver will be able to slow the car and caravan combination with the same force on the brake pedal as that needed to stop the car by itself.

Older caravans with over-ride hydraulic or mechanical brakes can be successfully converted to an electric system. The cost can be easily justified on the basis of more efficient braking and improved resale value.