Parallel Equipment

Caravans with parallel axles require specific brake equipment, most commonly electric drum brakes or hydraulic disc brakes, along with a compatible in-car controller and a breakaway system for safety and legal compliance in Australia.

Types of Braking Systems

For caravans with parallel axles, the primary braking systems are electric drum and hydraulic disc brakes.

Electric Drum Brakes:

Description: This system uses an electromagnet inside the brake drum which activates the brake shoes to press against the inside of the spinning drum.

Pros: They are economical, simple to maintain, easy to incorporate a mechanical handbrake, and are effective for lighter caravan applications.

Cons: Prone to overheating (brake fade) during long descents or heavy use, less effective at high speeds, and can collect mud or debris when off-road.

Products: A common example is the Couplemate 50mm Square Electric Brake Axle Kit, which is designed for robust performance.

Hydraulic Disc Brakes:

Description: Calipers with brake pads squeeze a spinning rotor (disc) to create friction and stop the wheel, similar to car brakes.

Pros: Offer superior, more consistent stopping power and better heat dissipation (less fade) for heavy loads, off-road use, and long descents. They recover better from water immersion.

Cons: Generally more expensive, require a more complex setup with an actuator and hydraulic lines, and require a separate mechanical parking brake mechanism.

Products: You can find complete kits, such as the 1600KG Mechanical Disc Braked Caravan Trailer Axle, from Couplemate Trailer Parts.