I'm looking to buy a trailer for my rig and I've been researching alot. I've settled on a prodigy brake controller and I know I need trailer brakes but I still have a few questions. I'm looking at buying a used trailer, are there certain things I should keep an eye out for beyond, rust and regular mechanical stuff? Also I've been reading alot about trailer brakes, Is one brake axle sufficent for a ~5k lbs rig or should I invest in a second brake axle?
Also I'm towing with a 99 f-250 PSD.

As far as brakes on one or both axles, check with the LA DMV. I know that IL requires brakes on all axles, and for anything over 2,000 lbs. I'd say that a single axle brake towing with an F250 PSD should be sufficient. Personally, I'd add the second set.

Prodigy. No better electric inertia controller available.

Check the wheel bearings, jack it up and check them like you would ball joints, by rocking them at 12/6 and 9/3 o'clock. If they're loose, they may just need to be tightened. Spin them to see if they're dry.

Also I've been reading alot about trailer brakes, Is one brake axle sufficent for a ~5k lbs rig or should I invest in a second brake axle?


Having brakes on both axles will sure help when you really need to stop quick. They're well worth the little bit more it costs.

Another vote for brakes on both axles.

brakes on both axles are nice but wouldn't be life or death with an f250. Also look for bent frames and freshly replaced metal or a only a little bit of decking replaced. I know my trailer has 2 bent crossmembers and 1 board that needs to be replaced due to my hard use of my trailer.

My one experience with single axle brakes on a car hauler was scary. While following a buddy down a series of twisty steep downgrades, trailer brake fade put all the braking load on my F-250. After multiple applications and stop and go situations, I had smoke boiling out of my front fenderwells and nearly zero brakes. It was the worst-case scenario happening. Under more routine hauling circumstances, the trailer stopped well and I didn't experience any difficulty with that trailer.

You'd actually have to experience the differences between dual axle and single axle brakes to know any difference, but it will be quite evident when you do. With single axle brakes at 7K GVW you'll always know you have a trailer behind you when you stop; with dual axle brakes and a quality brake controller, there's generally no more of a braking load on the towrig with or without the trailer. Of all the possible options when ordering a trailer, the extra brake axle is one where your money will be most effectively spent.

Even if it weren't the law in Indiana I'd stay with brakes on both axles, if for nothing more than the peace of mind.

Why risk it...really, how much more does it cost?