Today’s fifth wheels and toy haulers are large and heavy. However, your tow vehicle helps stop the load, and DeeMaxx disc brakes in the trailer share the workload.
If you’re seeking improved braking response, towing feels more confident. Additionally, upgrading from traditional electric drum brakes to DeeMaxx disc brakes may be worth considering.
Your Truck and RV Work Together When Braking
When you apply the brakes, your tow vehicle and trailer aren’t operating independently. The truck’s braking system slows the tow vehicle while the trailer brakes help control and slow the RV behind it.
As trailer size and weight increase, trailer braking performance becomes increasingly important.
Your tow vehicle should always be properly rated for the RV you’re towing. Upgrading the trailer brakes does not increase your truck’s towing capacity or the RV’s weight ratings.
Why Larger Fifth Wheels Can Feel Different
A large fifth wheel or toy hauler carries considerably more mass than a smaller travel trailer.
Stopping performance can be affected by many factors, including:
- Loaded RV weight
- Tow vehicle
- Trailer brake condition
- Brake adjustment
- Tires
- Road conditions
- Speed
- Mountain grades
- Brake controller setup
Properly functioning trailer brakes are an important part of the overall towing combination.
Electric Drum Brakes vs. DeeMaxx Disc Brakes
Many towable RVs come equipped with electric drum brakes.
Electric drum brakes use magnets, brake shoes and internal hardware to create braking force inside the drum. They require inspection, maintenance and proper adjustment to perform as designed.
A DeeMaxx hydraulic disc brake system uses an electric-over-hydraulic actuator to create hydraulic pressure. That pressure operates calipers that squeeze brake pads against the rotors.
For owners of larger RVs, hydraulic disc brakes can provide the strong, smooth and consistent braking response they’re looking for.
Mountain Driving Can Put Brakes to Work
Owners who frequently travel through mountainous areas may place greater demands on their braking systems.
Long grades and repeated braking generate heat. Disc brakes dissipate heat differently than enclosed drum brakes, which is one reason some owners of heavier fifth wheels and toy haulers consider upgrading.
Regardless of the braking system, proper downhill driving techniques and safe speeds remain essential.
Your Existing Running Gear Matters Too
Before upgrading your brakes, it’s a good opportunity to inspect the rest of the RV’s running gear.
Wheel bearings, axles, suspension components, shackles, bushings, equalizers, tires and wheels should all be in appropriate condition.
A brake upgrade shouldn’t be used to compensate for an overloaded RV, worn suspension or other mechanical problems.
Is a DeeMaxx Upgrade Right for Your Fifth Wheel?
If you’re satisfied with the performance of your properly maintained electric drum brakes, a conversion may not be necessary.
But if you tow a large fifth wheel or toy hauler and want improved trailer braking response, hydraulic disc brakes may be an upgrade worth discussing.
The right system should be selected based on your RV’s axle capacity, running gear, wheel compatibility and other installation requirements.
DeeMaxx Disc Brake Installation in Northern California
California RV Specialists LLC in Lodi provides professional DeeMaxx hydraulic disc brake conversions for fifth wheels, toy haulers and travel trailers.
We can inspect your existing brakes and running gear and help determine whether a DeeMaxx disc brake upgrade is appropriate for your RV.
California RV Specialists LLC
200 S. Cherokee Lane
Lodi, CA 95240
209-263-7040
A larger RV doesn’t mean you should accept braking performance you’re uncomfortable with. If you’re looking to improve your trailer’s braking response, consider whether a DeeMaxx hydraulic disc brake conversion is the right upgrade for your RV.
vidIQ
