Need brakes on boat trailer?

[jacksonr]

Been double towing a 16' boat a number of years, but have upgraded to a larger 19'er. Plan to continue doubling (only way to go if you like camping and fishing). My question is, how many of you have brakes on the boat trailer? Are they necessary or is your tv and 5th wheel brakes providing enough stopping power?
I'd like to hear pros and cons.

[RCMAN46]

I would not even consider towing a 19 ft boat behind a 5th wheel without boat trailer brakes.

Most boat trailers in the 19 ft range have surge brakes and they should work fine if they are in good condition and set up properly.

[sleekcrafter]

Most all boat trailer over 3K have brakes or are supposed to. you will need a second brake control for electric brakes behind your 5vr, or use surge brakes.

[laknox]

agesilaus wrote:
Your state will have regulations/laws on what they require. Usually trailers above a certain weight must have brakes

In AZ, you =must= have brakes on any trailer with > 3k GVW. Doesn't mean electrics; can be surge brakes.

Lyle

[Mile_High]

The requirements for brakes on the boat trailer is dictated by the weight of the boat and boat trailer, regardless of how you tow it. If it doesn't have brakes now, it doesn't need them and visa versa.

[Super_Dave]

agesilaus wrote:
Your state will have regulations/laws on what they require. Usually trailers above a certain weight must have brakes

This is true. Most single axle trailers tend to not have brakes but can help if you have the dough to have them installed. Your 19' is right on the edge. If it is at all heavy or a glass boat, I'd consider adding brakes.

If you go with brakes and do a lot of mountain driving, consider electric over hydraulic brakes as opposed to surge brakes that can easily overheat bearings on long down grades.

[agesilaus]

Your state will have regulations/laws on what they require. Usually trailers above a certain weight must have brakes

[newman_fulltime]

put titan brakes on it