Google Groups no longer supports new Usenet posts or subscriptions. Historical content remains viewable.
Dismiss

How much does it cost to install brakes on my trailer?

1,679 views
Skip to first unread message

Teedge

unread,
Sep 17, 2003, 2:09:48 AM9/17/03
to
California law requires brakes on all trailers above 1500 pounds. I
just bought a used trailer that weighs in at 1450 lbs when it is
empty, but will be at around 2000 lbs GVW when it is loaded. My TV is
a minivan rated at 3300 lbs. What kind of brakes should I look into
and roughly how much do they cost to have put in? Thanks.

Tom Shaw

unread,
Sep 17, 2003, 11:38:40 AM9/17/03
to
I wonder if, since the registration gives the weight, you have to worry
about the load.
TS
"Teedge" <tjti...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:3e8e3b11.03091...@posting.google.com...

Tom

unread,
Sep 17, 2003, 5:00:12 PM9/17/03
to

Are you sure it's as low as 1500 pounds? Our state (Washington) is
3000. At any rate, if 1450 is stamped on your trailer I wouldn't be
concerned from a legal standpoint. Your comfort level with stopping
would be the only other criteria, IMO.

Tom

Turn Key

unread,
Sep 18, 2003, 12:20:33 AM9/18/03
to
Had them put on our '99 Coleman Sea Pine about 2 years ago. Cost right at
$400.00 w/controller. That did not include an axel swap as the one that was
on the trailer would accept brakes. Don't know about yours.

Good luck and happy camping, Turn Key

"Teedge" <tjti...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:3e8e3b11.03091...@posting.google.com...

DTT

unread,
Sep 18, 2003, 3:29:57 AM9/18/03
to
CA has too many laws... for instance, a ridiculous law limit towing
speed to 55 mph.
1450 lbs is below 1500 lbs limit, so you should be OK with the law.
who know how much actual weight you put on. I am sure the law may have
already factor in the cargo load.
How big is the tire and brake of your towing vehicle? If it is a SUV,
probably OK.

As a side note, I saw many people towing a boat get stopped by the
cops over July 4th weekend probably for speeding on I10. If you towing
your camper, watch your speed.


tjti...@hotmail.com (Teedge) wrote in message news:<3e8e3b11.03091...@posting.google.com>...

Steph

unread,
Sep 18, 2003, 12:38:37 PM9/18/03
to
tjti...@hotmail.com (Teedge) wrote in
news:3e8e3b11.03091...@posting.google.com:

Legally you could check whether that law has a grandfather clause, or
applies to loaded versus unloaded setups.

However, as a fellow minivan owner (rated at 3800 not 3300lbs) and
pulling a similar pop-up (1460 lbs unloaded) - I would highly recommend
looking into adding electric brakes for the increased safety of your
family.

I had Aros Trailers of El Cajon do mine, which did not require a axle
exchange, but required most everything else. Cost was $400 and about 2
weeks to complete. I was glad to have spent it, as after a 1200 mile
trip the wheel bearing casing has developed a crack (mfg defect). I had
to front the labor cost for Aros to pull it off and send it back back
within 4 or 5 days I had the trailer back with a new hub and about 3
weeks later I had my labor reimbursement.

--
Stephen, Wife, Daughter, Son, and in-laws
San Diego, CA
2002 Grand Caravan ES 3.8L with tow package
2001 Saturn LW200 in Silver-Blue
2001 Jayco Eagle 10 UD
__________
/__________\_
|__|__|_____|---+
O

Bill Cornwell

unread,
Sep 18, 2003, 5:21:16 PM9/18/03
to
I have a 00 Jayco Eagle 10UD that I plan on installing electric brakes to
over the winter. I've already
bought my brake controller (Tekonsha Prodigy) from www.rvwholesalers.com
for $99.00 + shipping.

The complete brake system minus the blue wiring to the plug is $152.00 +
shipping from www.dexteraxle.com

Have you looked under your PU to see if the mounting flanges are there for
the brakes?

Bill
00 Jayco Eagle 10UD
01 Ford F150 XLT SC

DThunderchicken

unread,
Sep 18, 2003, 9:15:20 PM9/18/03
to
Hi Teedge;


Chances are that your trailer has a Dexter axle under it. If you contact them
they will assist you by providing part numbers and prices. They were VERY
helpful to me. You will probably be able to pick up the parts locally cheaper
than the Dexter price and with no shipping. IIRC I paid about $300 for the
parts needed. FWIW, I'm legal without brakes but I'm glad that I put them on.
HTH My best;


http://www.dexteraxle.com/

Dave
`89 Shenandoah
`96 GMC van/`85 beater Blazer
House Springs Mo.

brewda...@hotmail.com

unread,
Sep 19, 2003, 4:59:00 PM9/19/03
to
Dexter's online price was honored by a local dealer in Southern
California for me. It was 152.00 plus sales tax. Included all the
manuals needed.

On 19 Sep 2003 01:15:20 GMT, dthunde...@aol.com (DThunderchicken)
wrote:

0 new messages