For more than two decades, Smith Trailers and Equipment has been serving Cincinnati and tri-state area residents for all their trailer-related needs. One of the most commonly asked questions they receive is about the difference between hydraulic brake trailers and electric brake trailers. The experts at Smith weigh in on the difference between the two, and what sets hydraulic brake trailers apart from the crowd.

The science behind hydraulic brake trailers is relatively straightforward. There is an actuator device located on the front end of the trailer; this device is part of a mechanical pump called a coupler. From the device are various lines that carry hydraulic brake fluid to the parts of the trailer that need to be slowed down when the system is activated. When you hit your brakes, the coupler sends brake fluid to the plates on the brakes, activating brake shoes that hit drums and bring the vehicle to a stop. 

Hydraulic brakes are utilized mostly on boat trailers and rental trailers. The reason for this is simple: boat trailers have to end up in the water to unload the boat, so an electric brake trailer would short-circuit and malfunction once it hit the water. On rental trailers, a hydraulic brake system would not require a brake controller as an electric system would, thereby allowing any vehicle the capability to haul a hydraulic brake trailer.

When it comes to control, there is very little human management involved outside of actually tapping your brakes; the entire process is mechanical and automatic once your foot pushes the brake pedal. This is another marked distinction between hydraulic brake trailers and electric brake trailers. With electric brakes, you have far more control of the trailer: a voltage controller in the brake command unit allows you to set the exact amount of electrical voltage you want sent to your brakes, giving you greater power over the trailer.

Whether you choose hydraulic or electric brakes, be sure to trust the professionals of Smith Trailers and Equipment. They are your one-stop superstore for trailer repair and rental—including utility trailers, dump trailers, and equipment trailers—as well as a huge selection of trailer parts and accessories. Call (513) 755-2497 or visit them online to weigh the pros and cons of hydraulic versus electrical brakes for your next haul.