What's New — Help & Technical Guide

Trailer wheel assemblies use either an idler hub or a hub & drum assembly. While both support the wheel and bearings, only a drum is designed to work with brake shoes. Before ordering replacement parts, confirm whether your trailer uses idler hubs or brake drums. What Is an Idler Hub? An idler hub is a simple wheel hub that allows the wheel to rotate freely. It does not include a braking surface. No internal brake surface Flat rear face Used on non-braked axles Common on light utility trailers What Is a Hub & Drum Assembly? A hub & drum combines the...

Selecting the correct electric or hydraulic brake assembly requires more than choosing a diameter. Proper compatibility depends on axle rating, drum size, mounting flange pattern, and hub configuration. A mismatch in any of these areas can lead to unsafe braking, uneven wear, or installation failure. Brake systems must be sized to the lowest-rated component in the axle, hub, drum, and frame system. Step 1 – Verify Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) Brake size is determined primarily by the axle’s Gross Axle Weight Rating. Always confirm the axle tag or manufacturer documentation before selecting brake assemblies. Axle Rating Typical Brake Size Common...

Whether you're upgrading an axle, replacing springs, or buying an entirely new trailer, understanding your trailer’s load capacity is critical. Misunderstanding GVWR, GAWR, and axle ratings can lead to dangerous overloads, uneven wear, reduced braking performance, and even legal penalties. Load ratings are engineering limits — exceeding them risks safety, equipment damage, and liability. 1. GVWR – Gross Vehicle Weight Rating What It Is: GVWR is the maximum total weight a trailer can safely carry, including: Trailer frame Cargo Fluids (fuel, water, etc.) Accessories (toolboxes, spare tires, racks) Where to Find It: On the trailer’s VIN or certification label Specified...

Whether you're upgrading an axle, replacing suspension components, or purchasing a new trailer, understanding towing capacity and load ratings is critical. Misunderstanding GVWR, GAWR, and combined ratings can result in mechanical failure, unsafe handling, and potential legal exposure. Tow ratings are engineering limits — not suggestions. 1. Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) GCWR is the maximum allowable weight of the tow vehicle and trailer combined. Tow vehicle Trailer Cargo Passengers Fluids and accessories Maximum Trailer Weight = GCWR – (Vehicle Curb Weight + Payload) This formula determines how much trailer weight your vehicle can safely pull. 2. Gross Vehicle Weight...

What Electric Trailer Brakes Do Electric trailer brakes convert electrical signal from your tow vehicle into mechanical braking force at each wheel. When you press the brake pedal, your brake controller sends power through the blue brake wire to the trailer’s brake magnets. The magnets activate the brake shoes inside the drum, slowing the trailer. This system allows proportional, adjustable braking that works in sync with your tow vehicle. Electric brakes do not operate independently — they require a brake controller in the tow vehicle. Main Components of an Electric Brake System Brake Controller (inside truck) 7-Way Trailer Plug Brake...