stopping distance, disk vs drum
I've seen a lot of anecdotal information about stopping distance improvements when switching from drum to disk. What I can't find is a rigorous test that compares pre- and post-switch stopping distan...
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If you can lock up your brakes then the difference in distance between drum and disk is going to be minimal. However IMO, not many drum brakes will lock the brakes, especially a large heavy trailer.
Due to their design trailer brakes are not the best unless they are set up perfectly and work exactly as designed, which doesn't appear to be the norm. Poor wiring, weak magnets, worn drums, cheap brake shoes, all of these will contribute to mediocre braking.
As far as disc brakes overall good drum brakes will stop you as quickly as disc brakes...the first time. When drum brakes get hot, which they will do much faster than disc brakes, they fade pretty badly. Same thing when they get wet. Also ABS is going to work much better with disc brakes over drums.
Due to their design trailer brakes are not the best unless they are set up perfectly and work exactly as designed, which doesn't appear to be the norm. Poor wiring, weak magnets, worn drums, cheap brake shoes, all of these will contribute to mediocre braking.
As far as disc brakes overall good drum brakes will stop you as quickly as disc brakes...the first time. When drum brakes get hot, which they will do much faster than disc brakes, they fade pretty badly. Same thing when they get wet. Also ABS is going to work much better with disc brakes over drums.
