How to Synchronize Trailer Brakes

What is the proper setting for the brake controller on a trailer? According to RV maintenance and repair expert Dave Solberg, the answer depends on the weight of your trailer, what’s needed to slow down under control and without skidding. You’re not trying to bring the trailer to a sudden stop, just slow it down to work in conjunction with tow vehicle’s brakes. For instance, what happens if you set trailer brakes settings too high and you hit a wet patch or loose gravel? In this video lesson, Dave explains what you need to do to carefully synchronize trailer brakes with the brakes on your tow vehicle.

Getting Your Tow Vehicle and Trailer Brakes in Line

First things first, Dave discusses what he does to get his trailer brakes synchronized. Every trailer manufacturer has its own setup and suggestions for syncing. Dexter, for example, recommends taking your loaded vehicle on a clean, hard surface road and attempting several hard stops at 20 mph. If you notice the trailer’s wheels skid when slowing down at this speed, your setting is probably too high. Try toning it down bit by bit with the same process to add some resistance.

Be sure to check the guide for your specific model to see what the manufacturer recommends, and you should have no issues properly slowing down your trailer when out on your next adventure!