How to Use a Ram Trucks Trailer Brake
Do you like towing a trailer on your Ram truck? If you do, make sure you know how to use a Ram trucks trailer brake to prevent accidents. Fortunately, technology has evolved to offer advanced braking systems and capabilities to match the power of Ram’s truck lineup. This guide provides a detailed information on the latest trailer braking systems available on Ram trucks, how to use them, and why proper maintenance is necessary.
Key Takeaways
• Ram trucks trailer brakes are equipped with modern technology that enhances the truck’s ability to come to a full stop while reducing sway and preventing frontal collisions.
• Ram trucks, especially those designed to haul trailers, feature automatic emergency braking system and brake assist for reliable and safe braking during emergency situations.
• There are two types of trailer brakes available to Ram trucks and trailers: electric and surge brakes.
• Activating the trailer brakes reduce sway, prevent accidents, and gives you peace of mind.
Why Trailer Brakes are Necessary?
Trailer camping has become increasingly popular in the US and in various parts of the world. With a growing number of campgrounds for RVs and trailers, it has become the new favorite pastime for many people, which allows them to be close to nature and experience adventurous travel. Before towing a trailer to your Ram pickup, it’s important to know how to operate and check the condition of trailer brakes before you set out on the road.
Trailer sway is one issue. A good trailer braking system can prevent such issue and any other mishaps that could arise from hitching a trailer to your truck. Below are some benefits to investing in a trailer brake system for your Ram truck.
Reduce Sway
Trailers are highly vulnerable to wind and changing weather conditions. When you are driving through unstable road conditions or challenging weather, it can be easy for the trailer to sway and go out of control.
Swaying also puts your trailer at risk of colliding with other vehicles on the road. Without adequate braking system, a fun road trip could easily turn into a nightmare.
Prevent Accidents
As mentioned above, installing trailer brakes for your Ram truck is important because it can prevent accidents. It is easier to control the trailer and keep it on track, thus preventing unnecessary movements that cause accidents or collision with other vehicles or oncoming traffic.
Peace of Mind
Nothing beats having peace of mind that your trailer and other motorists are safe when you have a reliable trailer braking system. Hauling a trailer to your Ram truck is already a stressful situation, so you can install additional safety features, such as a trailer brake and controller, to ensure you can easily navigate any road or traffic conditions.
Ram Trucks and Their Trailer Braking System
There are different types of trailer brakes available to the Ram pickup trucks. Let’s discover what these various braking systems and how to use them.
Electric Brakes
An electric brake is among the most common types of Ram truck trailer brakes. When a driver applies brakes on the towing vehicle, an electromagnet activates the braking function. It allows for easier braking but requires the use of a brake controller with adjustable settings. That way, you can control the braking function with ease.
Surge Brakes
Surge brakes use hydraulic piston that adds pressure when the tow vehicle speed decreases. The added pressure activates the braking function on the trailer wheels, significantly reducing the forward force on the towing vehicle.
How to Use a Ram Trucks Trailer Brake
Ram trucks, especially those built for towing heavy trailers, are equipped with an automatic emergency braking (AEB) system. They also feature additional safety equipment, such as the brake assist and emergency trailer brakes. The Ram trucks trailer brake can accommodate a max load of 15.921 kilos on its hook.
When activated, the AEB brings the vehicle to a complete stop, especially if there is a risk for a frontal collision when running below 50 kph. Meanwhile, the brake assist system applies maximum braking power during emergency situations or when your stopping distance is reduced.
When the driver applies the emergency brakes, it also activates the trailer brakes, forcing the latter to respond immediately. It applies the same amount of braking pressure as the ones applied on the towing vehicle, which is the Ram truck. The trailer brakes come to a full stop without hitting the rear portion of the tow vehicle, thanks to an “intelligent” brake system.
Depending on the type of Ram truck and its towing capabilities, some have additional trailer braking capacity, such as trailer-sway mitigation. This feature is useful when pressing the brakes abruptly as it is meant to reduce the swaying action on the trailer, minimizing the risk of it losing stability.
Safety Tips and Best Practices
As with any vehicle, whether for off-roading or daily driving, it is recommended to undergo scheduled preventive maintenance. Preventive maintenance ensures all safety components are in good working condition.
Also, make sure to check the weight of the trailer being towed and ensure it matches with the recommended weight that Ram trucks are capable of towing. You can protect your Ram powertrain warranty and keep it from being void because you don’t exceed the capabilities of your Ram truck powertrain by staying within its limits.
Finally, check the condition of your Ram trucks and trailer brakes before heading out for an adventure.
