i have a harness but not sure i need it on a 3k pound surge break camper ?

 

If it's only 3k lbs the surge breaks should be fine. When I think of campers my thoughts automatically go to mine, which is a 14k lb 5th wheel. Surge breaks should be fine for 3k lbs.....unless they fail. But we could talk about what-if's all day long.

I've pulled that much weight on a 3500 lb utility trailer I have and it doesn't have any brakes on it. Just be smart, it takes longer to stop.

 

I guess I'm thinking of the wrong thing. Surge brakes as I remember them are hydraulic only, with no electric association, and are self contained on the trailer unit.

In order to use the controller, Electric brake type axles would have to be installed on the camper unit.

My Bad, I guess?

 

No "my bad" necessary. You are correct in that surge brakes are hydraulic, they activate by sensing when the truck brakes are initiated. My experience with the is that if you have to slam on the brakes the surges usually lock up immediately. With a brake controller, which is electric, and the trailer must be set up for them, you have much more control over them locking up.

 

ramhunter, surge brakes will be just fine for a trailer that small. my boat weighs 5k lbs totally empty. it has surge brakes that are FUBAR!. i have no problems stopping at all.

 

ok in canada...... Surge brakes you do not need a controller--- there is no need for it, seeing as the master cyclinder and actuater is on the trailer. you need a Controller for electric brakes.

Surge brakes works when you apply brake pressure-- truck slows and the engery transferred from the trailer to the Hitch actuates the master cylinder, its actually part of the trailer hitch....

Sorry guys... didnt see page 2!!!!

 

A 2500 mega cab won't even notice 3k lbs behind it Surge brakes will be fine.

UHaul car trailers are surge brake only. The empty trailer is 2k lbs by itself!