What Is a Trailer Anti-Lock Brake System?

Anti-lock Brake Systems, otherwise known as ABS, have been a common feature in automotive vehicles for several decades. In the past, ABS systems have generally been unavailable on utility or recreational trailers. Dexter developed the first trailer ABS system, Tow Assist®, built specifically for electric drum brake trailers. In addition to ABS functionality, the system includes two other innovative features: Sway Mitigation technology and a Towable Odometer. Sway Mitigation plays a crucial role in enhancing trailer handling by detecting and counteracting trailer sway. The Towable Odometer tracks mileage and system diagnostic information. By combining ABS, Sway Mitigation technology, and a Towable Odometer, Tow Assist is a revolutionary system that dramatically improves trailer handling during braking events.

HOW DOES TRAILER ABS WORK?

TRAILER SENSOR

Dexter’s ABS system monitors rotation speed at every wheel end to ensure braking efficiency. The system sends a signal multiple times a second from each wheel to track tire rotation while in tow or during braking. The system uses feedback from the wheel speed sensors to regulate brake force during a stop event. When it determines one or more wheels are rotating slower than the others, the system will adjust the braking action to that specific wheel by the exact amount needed to match the other wheel’s speed. The result is that the trailer will stop as quickly as the trailer tires and road surface can possibly allow. Also, the trailer will tend to stop in a much more predictable direction and be less likely to jackknife.

TRAILER INDICATOR LIGHT

Dexter’s Tow Assist system includes a trailer indicator light that utilizes two light colors, green and amber. The color will help you identify that your ABS system is functioning correctly. At the beginning of each trip, our Tow Assist system is programmed to do a self-check. The two-color LED lamp will turn green to notify you that everything is ready to go. The indicator will also turn a brighter green whenever the ABS system is active during a braking event.

However, if the system does notice that maintenance is needed, it will turn the amber section of the indicator light. This system has been built to keep you safe and confirm every trip that your ABS system is running properly, giving you the peace of mind you need as you travel.

DO I NEED TO ACTIVATE AN ABS SYSTEM?

The Tow Assist system does its job automatically and often reacts so quickly that a potential skid never happens before you realize the need to respond. As a result, our system engages and operates without any specific action required from the driver.