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In many instances, you may be able to tow your boat using the vehicle you already own and a trailer built for towing 2,000 pounds or less. But, if you boat and trailer together weigh more than 2,000 pounds, many experts agree you should consider installing a separate set of brakes on the trailer itself. The most popular type of trailer brakes are surge and electric. Surge brakes work hydraulically, while electric brakes have a controller in the tow vehicle that senses brake pedal pressure. Remember, you are now asking your motor vehicle to stop with an additional ton of pressure, so installing trailer brakes may save your boat from damage or even prevent a more serious injury to you or another driver.