[Motor31]

This was interesting.

"The Dexter brakes are designed to stop the maximum rated capacity for each axle series. For example: Dexter's 8000 pound brakes (12-1/4" x 3-3/8") are designed for stopping 8000 pounds."

I have 8,000 lb axles on my rig. The rig weighs 18,500 so the brake capacity by their own statement is not up to the weight of the trailer. This would be more so for those who have an Elite since they are provided with a GVW of 20,000 lbs and still only have two 8000 lb axles.

That's all assuming that the trailer manufacturer contracted with Dexter to provide 8000 lb rate brakes on those 8000 lb axles and that they are working to full capacity with a fully functional set of wires and a brake controller that is sending sufficient signal to the brakes for electric brakes. Similar conditions will have to be met for the air over hydraulic brakes. Then other factors such as coefficient of friction for the tires, pavement as well as grade and curvature of the roadway will have to be taken into consideration as well as that the trailer is not certified to stop on it's own.

They are also did not give stopping distances for the unit or any indication of how well the brakes will stop the trailer. Technically, according to the wording they had there, as long as the trailer stopped sometime, the brakes are adequate.