Trailers are an important part of many businesses and recreational activities, allowing users to transport heavy items with ease. To ensure safety, trailers are equipped with a braking system that helps slow or stop the trailer when necessary. One of the most common braking systems used on trailers is the overrun brake, which automatically engages when the trailer is disconnected from the tow vehicle. In this article, we will explore how the overrun brake works and when it engages.
Understanding Trailer Braking Systems
Trailers are designed with a braking system that helps slow or stop the trailer when necessary. The most common type of braking system used on trailers is the overrun brake, also known as an inertia brake. This system consists of a spring-loaded mechanism that engages when the trailer is disconnected from the tow vehicle. When the trailer is in motion, the spring-loaded mechanism applies pressure to the brakes, slowing the trailer down.
The overrun brake is a passive system, meaning that it does not require any action from the driver. This makes it an ideal braking system for trailers, as it ensures that the trailer will be able to slow down or stop when necessary, regardless of whether the driver is aware of the situation or not.
When Does a Trailer with Overrun Brake Engage?
The overrun brake is designed to automatically engage when the trailer is disconnected from the tow vehicle. When the trailer is in motion and the tow vehicle comes to a stop, the trailer will continue to move forward until the overrun brake engages. The amount of time it takes for the overrun brake to engage will vary depending on the weight of the trailer and the speed at which it is traveling. Generally, the heavier the trailer, the faster the overrun brake will engage.
Once the overrun brake has engaged, the trailer will come to a stop in a short amount of time. This is due to the fact that the brakes are actively slowing the trailer down, rather than relying on the tow vehicle to do so.
In conclusion, the overrun brake is an important part of trailer safety. It is designed to automatically engage when the trailer is disconnected from the tow vehicle, slowing the trailer down quickly and effectively. Knowing when and how the overrun brake engages can help keep you and your trailer safe on the road.
