Category: Blog

Everyone wants to save a buck. However, there are some things you should never cut corners on. Safety features take the top of the list. So when you’re buying something like a system for trailer brakes, you’ll want to skip the budget models and make sure you purchase a system that truly maximizes safety and ensures simplicity of use. Need help selecting the right trailer-brake controllers? Feel free to contact us. Let’s cover some of the risks that buying a budget braking system might create.

Budget Models May Be Less Reliable

Unfortunately, a budget system for trailer brakes often simply isn’t as reliable as a better model. The manufacturers may have no ill intent, but they need to keep costs low and that often means using outdated technologies and lower-quality materials. Unfortunately, this makes the brakes more likely to fail when you need them most.

When you buy premium braking systems, you can be more confident that the manufacturer is using the latest and greatest technologies. They’ll also use premium materials and will make sure everything is expertly engineered. Premium companies emphasize quality, and they know that their reputation is riding on the quality and reliability of their brakes.

Premium Models Often Offer Simpler Use

When you opt for a premium system for trailer brakes, you’ll often enjoy easier day-to-day use. For example, some systems feature a Quik-Connect® system that allows you to bypass hardwiring. This makes it easier to set the braking system up on different vehicles. Further, hardwiring can be prone to breaking down, even if high-quality wiring is used.

Safety Matters the Most

The above points are important primarily in that they increase safety. If a braking system fails, it could result in an accident. Employees and bystanders can be put at risk. Since vehicular accidents often involve high speeds and heavy weights, the risks can be immense. At the end of the day, property can be replaced but lives cannot. For this reason, it’s smart to skip low-quality braking systems and instead opt for a solution that will maximize safety.

According to The Drive, most trailer-brake controllers cost less than $250. You can still get great braking systems at an affordable price. However, the lowest-priced systems often cut corners. When selecting a system for trailer brakes, make sure you emphasize quality and safety. Need help selecting a new braking system? Contact us.

Hayes Towing Electronics Products are Proudly Made in the U.S.A.

In a world where “bigger is better” has often been the mantra, there’s a growing movement that challenges this notion. The tiny house movement has gained significant momentum in recent years, and for good reason. Tiny house kits are becoming increasingly popular among those seeking an alternative way of living. These compact dwellings offer numerous benefits that go beyond just downsizing.

 

Below we’ll explore the top benefits of tiny house trailers.

 

•     Affordability

 

One of the most appealing aspects of tiny house trailers is their affordability. In a time when housing costs are soaring, tiny homes offer a more budget-friendly option. With a tiny house trailer, you can have a fully functional home for a fraction of the cost of a traditional house. This makes homeownership more accessible to a wider range of people, including those with limited financial resources.

 

•     Sustainability

 

Tiny houses are inherently more environmentally friendly than their larger counterparts. They require fewer building materials and less energy to heat and cool. Many tiny house trailers are designed with sustainability in mind, featuring energy-efficient appliances and eco-friendly building materials. By living in a smaller space, you reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

 

•     Minimalism

 

The tiny house lifestyle encourages a minimalist approach to living. You’ll have to make choices about what possessions truly matter to you because space is limited. This leads to decluttering and simplifying your life, reducing the stress that often comes with excessive material possessions. Many people find that living with less stuff leads to greater contentment.

 

•     Portability

 

Tiny house trailers are often built on wheels, which means you can take your home with you wherever you go. This mobility is a game-changer for those who love to travel or desire a change of scenery without leaving their home behind. It’s like having a cozy nest that you can transport to your favorite locations.

 

•     Customization

 

Tiny house trailers provide an opportunity for personalization and creativity. You have the freedom to design your tiny home to meet your specific needs and style preferences. Whether you want a rustic cabin or a modern, minimalist design, there’s a tiny house trailer out there for you. This level of customization is rarely achievable with traditional homes.

 

•     Lower Maintenance

 

Smaller living spaces require less maintenance. You’ll spend less time cleaning, repairing, and maintaining your home. This frees up your time and reduces the stress associated with homeownership. Plus, it allows you to focus on activities and experiences that matter most to you.

 

•     Connection with Nature

 

Many tiny house enthusiasts choose to place their homes in natural settings. Whether it’s nestled in the woods, by a lake, or in a remote mountain location, tiny houses often facilitate a stronger connection with nature. Large windows and outdoor spaces help residents feel more connected to the environment around them.

 

•     Financial Freedom

 

Because tiny house living is more affordable, it can lead to financial freedom. Many people who embrace this lifestyle find themselves free from the burden of a mortgage and the high costs associated with traditional housing. When you buy tiny house kits for sale, it provides financial freedom that opens up travel opportunities, pursuing passions, and living life on your terms.

 

•     Reduced Environmental Impact

 

Living in a smaller space automatically reduces your environmental impact. Tiny houses require fewer resources to build, and they consume less energy. Additionally, many tiny house owners adopt eco-friendly practices, such as composting toilets and renewable energy sources, further reducing their carbon footprint.

 

•     Financial Security

 

Tiny house living can provide a sense of financial security in uncertain times. With lower living costs, you’re better equipped to weather economic downturns and unexpected expenses. The reduced financial strain allows you to build a more secure financial future.

 

Choose the Best in Class Tiny House Trailers from Trailer Made

 

The highly skilled team of Tiny House Experts at Trailer Made Trailers have years of experience in the tiny house industry and will build tiny house trailers for you. We strive to provide a great opportunity for tiny house enthusiasts to become tiny homeowners. Connect with our tiny house expert today to turn your dream into a reality.

 

Final Thoughts 

 

Tiny house trailers offer a plethora of benefits that extend far beyond just downsizing. They provide an affordable, sustainable, and customizable living option that allows you to embrace minimalism, reduce your environmental impact, and achieve financial freedom. These compact dwellings foster a stronger connection to nature, a sense of community, and a more stress-free lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a more flexible way of living or a path to a simpler, more intentional life, tiny house trailers offer a promising solution. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of living in a small, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly home, a tiny house trailer might just be the key to unlocking that dream.

Many people haul trailers but still don’t make the most of what air brakes offer. The addition or proper use of an air brake controller can make it much easier, safer, and more efficient to haul relatively heavy loads. Here are some of the significant advantages that you get when upgrading to an air brake controller.

Spread Out the Towing Load

It’s important to ensure the towing burden is spread out as evenly as possible among the front and rear axles of your towing vehicle while braking. According to RV Life, if your trailer weighs more than half the weight of the towing vehicle, the rear axle of that towing vehicle will bear the burden of most of that weight instead of spreading it among the front and rear axles. Using an air brake controller can help equalize the load between the two axles on the towing vehicle and the axle on the trailer.

Protect Your Brakes while Towing

The additional weight of a trailer and its payload puts a big strain on the brakes of your tow vehicle and the trailer. The brakes often wear out prematurely without an air brake controller that can help equalize the braking power. Some systems use proportional brake controllers with accelerometers that monitor speed and apply equal braking force to both axles on your truck and the axle on the trailer. When the braking load is equalized, the brakes last longer and you get more control of braking under all towing conditions.

Make Towing Less Stressful

Towing heavy loads can be very stressful, which you likely already know. Installing a controller for the air brakes helps to make towing less stressful by giving you more control over your vehicle’s brakes and those on the trailer. Most states require a sufficient braking system to help prevent jackknifing and a loss of control while towing any trailer that weighs more than 3,000 pounds. A controller for air brakes enables you to more precisely control the tow and ease the stress that you otherwise would feel. Less stressful driving makes it easier to pay attention to the road while worrying less about the trailer and load that you are hauling.

You can call or visit us to learn more about the benefits of an air brake controller for your tow vehicle and trailer. We help make towing safer while reducing the wear and tear on your vehicle and the trailer.

Hayes Towing Electronic Products are Proudly Made in the U.S.A.

Are you an outdoor towing enthusiast? If so, you need to have the right equipment so that you can stay safe on the road. As a result, you need to make sure that your trailers have the right brakes suitable for your towing needs. When choosing brakes, you can choose from air brakes, surge brakes, or electric ones. If you’re not sure which ones are right for you, read on for further insight about the differences in each type of brake or air brake controller. Being well-informed can ensure you’re able to tow safely and efficiently no matter where you’re going.

 

Electric Brakes

 

One of the most common brakes to buy for your trailers are electric ones. As their name implies, they use electricity from the vehicle’s battery that powers the electromagnet inside the brake drums. When you step on the brakes on your tow vehicle, it sends a signal to those electromagnets. As a result, the brake shoes create friction when they hit the drum. The amount of current sent to the electromagnets affects the amount of force and how well you can stop the trailer.

 

When you opt for these types of brakes, understand that a controller must be installed inside the vehicle cabin. The controller gives the driver power to adjust the timing and the sensitivity of the electric brakes. It also allows the driver to monitor the brake performance. When it comes to controllers, you could choose from ones that are time-delayed, inertia-based, or proportional. With a company like Hayes, you have the ability to choose between types of brakes, but also the type of controllers you use.

 

Do you prefer a time-delayed brake controller? If so, the Energize III may be the right one for you. These controllers come with a manual override as well as a digital display. You can mount them at any angle for optimum reliability. For an inertia-based brake controller, consider the G2 Brake Boss. This controller can sense the deceleration of the tow vehicle and also comes with a manual override in digital display. Its diagnostic features also make it easier to use on your trailer.

 

When you choose electric brakes for your trailer, you’re choosing ones that are often easy to maintain and install. You can rely on them for consistent brake performance regardless of the type of road conditions you’re operating on. So if you’re going through rough or hilly terrain, electric brakes may be the perfect solution for your big trailer. You can control the braking force independently from the tow vehicle itself, which gives you optimal control and safety.

 

One thing to be cautious about when you’re comparing electric brakes to others is they may not be suitable for submerging in water, as water and electronics don’t mix. While your electric brakes are great for different types of road terrain, if you’re in an environment where floods are at risk, you want to consider a different option. Also, be aware of the amount of time you’re using your brakes to avoid overheating.

 

Surge Brakes

 

Hydraulics have been useful throughout various types of vehicles. If you prefer hydraulics over electronics, consider using surge brakes for your trailers. Your surge brakes rely on hydraulic fluid to activate the brake drums. The trailer pushes against a hitch and compresses a hydraulic cylinder when you apply the brakes. This action applies pressure on brake lines, which later applies the brakes on the trailer itself.

 

Unlike electric brakes, you don’t need a brake controller for surge brakes. These types of brakes are self-contained units that automatically work whenever you slow down or come to a stop on the road. You can play it safe by getting some that have a lockout feature or manual override. Manual overrides and lockout features come in handy when you need to back up or when you’re driving in less than favorable conditions such as rainy or icy weather.

 

People who own boats often prefer surge brakes because of their ability to submerge safely in water. So you won’t have to worry about these brakes becoming damaged because of their exposure to water or humidity. These are also some of the easiest brakes to use and don’t require any additional knowledge of a braking system. Since they automatically work whenever you slow down the vehicle, all you need to do is let the brakes work their magic. Since they work independently from your vehicle, they won’t cause any strain or issues on your vehicle brakes or electrical system.

 

When it comes to safety and maintenance, opting for surge brakes certainly has more benefits. There are no electrical parts, so you don’t have to worry about the risk associated with electrical fires or malfunctions. These brakes are reliable when it’s time to stop and can prevent your trailer from swaying as long as you properly adjust them. They also have fewer parts compared to other brakes, so there’s less maintenance to worry about. Drivers must be aware of the quality of the hydraulic fluid in these brakes, as that can cause them to lose effectiveness if they leak or become contaminated.

 

Air Brakes

 

These brakes operate by compressed air to activate the brake drum. An air compressor sends air to your reservoir tank whenever you apply the brakes on a vehicle. From there, that air goes through various hoses and valves until it reaches the brake chambers. Then the air presses on pistons that apply the brakes on the trailer itself.

 

When you use air brakes, the air is in unlimited supply. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about fluid leaks or fuel to use them. They’re one of the most durable brakes to use, which may be why you tend to see them on large vehicles and commercial ones. Heavy-duty trucks, buses, and trailers often use these types of brakes, and they require a special license to operate them.

 

Hayes has an accentuated air brake controller, which is a proportional brake controller that senses when the vehicle is about to stop. It has a manual or automatic braking operation as well as hazard flashers.

 

While electric and surge brakes have their main qualities, air brakes are the most suitable ones for heavy loads. Drivers who use these types of brakes have access to an anti-lock braking system that prevents the vehicle from skidding or locking the wheels. People who use them should also be aware to properly maintain them as they become very noisy when worn down. These brakes shouldn’t be submerged in water since it can damage the air components.

 

Remember that all brakes aren’t suitable for just any type of vehicle. Be mindful of the type of work you’re trying to do, the terrain you’re operating on, as well as the climate. Some brakes can handle water, while others can handle rough road conditions. If you’re unsure what brakes or air brake controller is ideal for you, rely on professionals at Hayes. Our company has been in the business for many years and specializes in the right electrical surge and air brakes for you and your vehicles. Contact us today for more information!

 

Hayes Towing Electronics Products are Proudly Made in the U.S.A. and In-Stock!

An unstable trailer makes for not only an unpleasant traveling experience but an unsafe one as well. Trailer sway is often caused by uneven weight distribution, tight turns, high speed, steep inclines, crosswinds, oversteering, and other factors. Learning effective methods of trailer sway control is an essential part of safe driving. Let’s learn more about some good ways to control trailer sway when towing.

Know the Signs of Unsafe Swaying

Some movement will be a part of any driving experience that involves a trailer. You need to be aware, however, that swaying is considered to be the persistent side-to-side motion of the trailer while moving. This isn’t normal and it isn’t safe. One good indicator that there is too much sway in your trailer is that you will start to feel an uneasy sense of lack of stability in the vehicle. You might notice a back-and-forth rocking motion. If you start to notice this, you should stop accelerating, but avoid hitting the brakes.

Get The Proper Hitch Installed

Having the right hitch on your vehicle will be crucial to controlling this issue. The hitch is a device that attaches the trailer to the vehicle. They’re designed to carry specific load amounts. To assist with trailer sway control, you need a load-distributing hitch, sometimes called a weight-distributing hitch or load equalizer. This device helps to stabilize the tow vehicle. You should follow the hitch manufacturer’s recommendations precisely for safety.

Load Your Trailer Properly

The way you load your trailer will also matter. Sway is a result of unequal weight distribution. When loading, keep in mind that the weight inside the trailer should be distributed properly. It’s recommended that over half the weight, or about 60% should be toward the front. You also need to make sure that cargo is even within the front and back. Everything should also be secured so that things do not shift and change the weight distribution.

Consider A Trailer Sway Control Device

A sway control device can help to make the trailer and the tow vehicle feel as if they are one vehicle. This is accomplished by stiffening the connection between them. According to our team, trailer sway devices come in two types, those that reduce sway once it has begun and those that prevent sway altogether.

If you are in the market for a trailer sway control device, please contact us today. We provide services and products to make your towing experience smoother and safer. We are looking forward to working with you.

Hayes Towing Electronics Products are Proudly Made in the U.S.A.

If you are a trucker, you may be considering electric trailer brake controllers. These types of electronic devices work on the braking systems on your trailer. This gives you, the driver, full control over when the braking system is activated. Before deciding to install this device on your trailer, you should first learn about the benefits associated with it. Here are a few of the benefits of using electric trailer brake controllers.

Creates a Smooth Brake Experience

One of the most notable benefits associated with trailer brake controllers is that they help to create a more smooth brake experience. It can take a while for your trailer to get the memo that you want to come to a stop if they are connected to the brake pedal on your truck. The cab starts to come to a halt first, followed by the trailer. This can be jarring and is not smooth for your ride. With a controller, all of your brakes can come to a stop at once.

Helps Extend the Lifespan of the Brakes

These types of controllers also help to extend the lifespan of the brake systems on your truck or trailer. According to RVlife.com, if your trailer weighs 50% more than the tow vehicle’s weight, the tow vehicle’s rear axle carries much of the towing burden, instead of being distributed equally to the front and rear axles. As you stop the truck, this puts a lot of weight on the brake system of the back axle, wearing those brakes down faster. A brake controller helps prevent that from happening.

Increases Road Safety for Trailers

Lastly, electric trailer brake controllers have been shown to help big rigs stay safer when they are out on the road. They can reduce the chances of the truck jackknifing or tipping. This is beneficial for the truck driver as well as other motorists on the road. It also helps to keep the load safe and minimizes damage if an accident does occur.

If you are considering installing electric trailer brake controllers for your trailers, you are making a smart decision. There are a multitude of benefits associated with using these types of control systems. If you are looking for the one that is right for you, or, if you need help installing it, turn to us. Visit us today to get started.

Hayes Towing Electronics Products are Proudly Made in the U.S.A.

Owning and driving an RV is a new experience. These vehicles have become so popular that some people have begun living in them. Owners should know about vast features, such as RV trailer brake controllers, accessories, parking methods, and more. Keep reading to learn a few tips for first-time owners.

Research Different RV Types

Don’t jump and buy the first one you see. There are three main types available, such as the A, B, and C classes. According to RV Owner HQ, the Class B motorhomes are the smallest drivable ones, so they’re easier to park. You may want to invest in one of these for your first-time purchase so you can get used to driving something bigger than your everyday vehicle.

Check Out Forums

Did you know that there are forums run by other people living in the RV life? Start looking for forums on Facebook and other sites to get information from the people who own and have experience living in or driving around in one on vacation. According to RV Industry Association, over 11% of American households headed by 35-to-54-year-olds own an RV, which exceeds the 9.3% ownership rates of those 55 and older. This fact shows that you have different age groups that can give insights about the pros and cons of owning and driving an RV.

Travel Slow at First

It’s exciting owning an RV for the first time. You may have a lot of temptation to take a very long road trip to see everything all at once. However, don’t make the mistake of cramming everything into your first trip. It’s best to start with small trips so that you get the hang of driving your RV on the road and in different locations.

Think About Accessories

When you get your RV, you may not know about all of the different accessories that you can buy. It’s important to do some research on different safety accessories you can get to ensure you know exactly what you need for your purchase when buying them. Focus on necessities, such as RV trailer brake controllers, rear mirrors, and anything else that will enhance your driving safety.

Taking the step towards RV ownership can enhance your family’s lifestyle. Make sure you take the time to do your research and choose wisely. You have many options to buy and lots of resources to help you. Contact our local team today for RV trailer brake controllers so you can drive your RV safely.

If you’ve towed a trailer before, then you know that slowing it down can be challenging due to the extra weight. That’s why trailers or RVs which are in two categories—motorhomes (motorized) and towables (behind the family car, van, or pickup)—need brake controllers for safe towing.

Not only do they regulate the trailer’s brakes but also help the towing truck and trailer stop at the same time. Brake controllers help distribute the weight and alert the trailer’s brake system on the amount of braking power required to stop the trailer. In fact, many states require drivers to use trailers to equip them with brake controllers. Here’s more about brake controllers.

What Are Brake Controllers?

A brake controller is a small electronic device installed in a tow truck to activate a trailer’s brakes whenever brakes are applied to the towing car. It also helps the driver to monitor the trailer’s brake activity from the towing vehicle.

A brake controller has two parts:

• The interface for viewing the braking information and the buttons for controlling the output
• The manual activation for applying trailer brakes without applying them on the tow vehicle. It’s particularly helpful in preventing trailer sway

Why Brake Controllers Are Important

Brake controllers can help you brake properly by controlling the stopping distance and your trailer’s sway. Typically, the controllers help connect the trailer’s and the towing vehicle’s brakes making it easy to activate them when needed.

You could be wondering, “Why not connect the tow vehicle’s brake wiring directly to the trailer?” While this technique can also help apply the brakes to the trailer, you’ll be braking badly. That’s because the setup allows maximum braking all the time which could wear out the towing vehicle’s brakes rapidly. Brake controllers also regulate the speed and braking intensity at which the brakes are applied based on the terrain, trailer’s load weight, and size.

Types of Brake Controllers

Brake controllers are classified in different two broad categories based on their capacities and styles:

Time-Delayed Brake Controllers

This brake controller applies a predetermined amount of power to the RV’s brakes each time the truck stops. The driver sets the power beforehand based on the trailer’s weight and can be adjusted to accommodate different trailers.

The trailer doesn’t always stop immediately after applying the brakes but the driver may install a sync switch to compensate for this delay. Time-delayed brake controllers are effective, affordable, and easy to install but they wear out the braking system rapidly.

Proportional Brake Controllers

These brake controllers have a motion-sensing device called an accelerometer that detects any changes in momentum. Every time the driver applies brakes, the device transmits the same braking power to the trailer’s brakes, making it stop. Proportional controller brakes have a more efficient braking system because both braking systems perform the same amount of work. Also, they reduce the wear on each vehicle’s braking system.

Planning to hit the road soon? Have your trailer equipped with brake controllers from Hayes Towing Electronics. We have a range of brake controllers so you’re sure to find a suitable one for your RV. Get in touch with us for any inquiries or to place an order.

A brake controller is a handy device that controls your vehicle and trailer. It keeps you safe on the road and may even be required by law depending on your vehicle’s configuration and where you live. Installing a brake controller is a must if you need better sway control. Find out how it helps with sway control by continuing to read below.

1. Brake Controllers Can Give You Increased Stopping Distance

Using a weight distribution system is recommended if your trailer accounts for more than 50% of your vehicle’s weight, according to How Stuff Works. Installing the weight distribution system should already help improve your sway control. Your weight distribution system can provide even better control if it’s paired with a brake controller.

The weight distribution system and brake controller increase your stopping distance. While the system prevents any one part of your vehicle from bearing excessive weight, the brake controller takes advantage of that to stop your vehicle faster. As a result, you’ll have more stopping distance to work with while driving your vehicle. That should help you avoid getting into rear-end accidents.

2. Brake Controllers Allow You to Stop Trailer Sway Quickly

Preventing trailer sway is always preferable to stopping it. However, you may be unable to prevent trailer sway if it’s caused by damaged roads or other vehicles. In such a situation, your best bet is to quickly take control of your vehicle so you can stop your trailer from swaying.

Brake controllers can put an immediate stop to your swaying trailer. Use your brake controller to stop your vehicle as soon as you feel the movement of your trailer. Taking quick action that way could help you avoid an accident.

3. Brake Controllers Can Work With Different Trailers

You should also use a brake controller to improve your sway control because it’s a versatile addition to your vehicle. Changing your brake controller won’t be necessary, even if you have to tow a different trailer. It will work just fine regardless of what trailer you’re currently using.

Are you wondering how to ensure your brake controller will work with your new trailer? You’ll just have to calibrate your brake controller. Once you’re done with the calibrations, you can hit the road knowing that sway control won’t be an issue.

Trailer sway can be a big problem if you fail to keep it under control. Add a brake controller to your vehicle and improve your sway control in the process. Check out our website or give us a call today if you have any questions!

Hayes Towing Electronics Products Are Proudly Made in the U.S.A.

The right trailer brake controller solution is essential for safety. According to the NHTSA, there are more than 50,000 crashes each year that are towing-related. Choosing a brake controller that suits your needs should be a priority. Here are some tips for choosing a trailer brake controller solution.

First, Do You Need One?

Not too long ago, if you had a lightweight trailer, you could get away without worrying about a trailer brake controller solution. However, towing needs have changed since then. If your towing vehicle is outfitted with an anti-lock brake system (ABS), you need a brake controller solution. Of course, you also need a modern-day brake system if you want to increase your own safety.

Get Familiar With the Different Types Of Brake Controller Systems

Every brake controller taps into your electronic brake system, making it possible to maintain control of whatever you are towing behind you. However, you should be aware of the different types of trailer brake controllers out there. Choosing the one that is right for you starts with becoming familiar with the different options. Familiarize yourself with the four main types of controllers and the different features and price points for each one.

Time-delayed controllers are on the low end of the cost spectrum. Other options include inertia-based controllers, proportional controllers, and the hydraulic-over-electronic controller, which is higher in price. Hydraulic-over-electronic controllers are relatively new to the market. Keep watch over the supply and price points of these products in your area.

Ease of Installation

Installing a brake controller is relatively simple. You don’t need a specific skill set to manage the project on your own. Most newer vehicles come with an electronic harness, making the brake controller installation a “plug and play” situation. You plug up the controller, and you are ready to roll. You may have to search a little to find the harness, but once you do, it is just a matter of plugging in the controller. Check under your dashboard for the factory-installed harness.

The right trailer brake controller solution will keep you safe on the road and reduce your risk of accidents. Call Hayes Towing Electronics to learn more about your options. We’d love to help you choose a brake controller that suits your budget and your needs.