I'm new here so hope this works. I just bought a 24ft Hi Lo 2005. It was bought from a dealer of course used. I was told by the dealer that it did not have electric brakes. It does have the wire connection that if it comes unhookes from the truck it applys braking. My question is would a 24ft have electric brakes and the dealer just didn't take the time to check?

Yes, it should have electric brakes, if it doesn't someone removed them. By law in most states due to the weight of the trailer it has to have brakes.
Check the manuals in the Library in this forum if you don't have one.

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Rich
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(215TL) - 1995 21' TowLite
(2209T) - 2009 22' TowLite
99 Ford Explorer 4DR 4X4

There's a quick way to check this. Jack up one side of the trailer, or pull it up onto a ramp, if you have tandem axles, so that one of the wheels is "hanging" and is free to rotate by hand. Now, you should be able to rotate a wheel. Don't be surprised if you hear some slight noise or feel a slight drag - the brakes, if installed are supposed to feel this way if adjusted properly.

Now, pull the breakaway plug out of the switch you described. The wheel you were rotating should be locked tight. That's an electric brake in action. Put the plug back into the switch and the wheel should rotate again.

Note: NEVER leave the breakaway switch engaged to lock the wheels when parked - it will drain your trailer's battery quickly.

- Jack

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Hi-Lo 1707T
2005 F150 4x4 KR SCrew

Welcome to the forum. This is about as close as you are going to get to your year but the info is the same.

Owners Manual: 2004 Hi-Lo

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2404T, 2003 2500HD 4X4 GMC Crewcab w/Astro camper shell
Far West Texas

It would not have a breakaway switch if it does not have brakes, that is what the breakaway switch activates. Any trailer 3000 pounds or over must have brakes. I am shocked that a dealer would tell you that.

Welcome to the Forum!

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Great Wife, Joyce
2010 2310H Hi-Lo
2012 F150 4X4 SuperCrew EcoBoost w/Leer Cap
Reese WD Strait-Line Hitch
Amateur Radio K3EXU

It clearly CAME with electric brakes, but I suppose it's possible the previous owner removed/disabled them, which is why I suggested a way to check if they're operating.

- Jack

Thanks to all. I can see this form is a great idea.

Problem with any "dealer" site, is you are can be talking to salespeople, that dont know what they have said. He might have looked at a small list of "options" for a camper, since brakes are standard since what, year 2000 on all traiers? that "fact" was not on list.

YOUR tow vehicle wont activate the brakes on a trailer either, without a brake controller, which is an add on for almost any vehicle.

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From Kansas: 29ft '95 5th, converted to toybox in rear, by Hilo. Pics soon, Some Here.

I have installed a brake controller and have power to the back plug so should be good to go. Taking Feb. to go to Texas at a place called Paul's RV resort in Brownsville. Leaving St. Louis area Jan 28. Has anyone been to this park? Looking forward to the fishing and good food in South Padre Island. This will be a good test for my 24 ft on space.

Welcome to Texas!! We haven't been to that park but the coast of Texas is famous for their nice RV Parks and activities for guests, not to mention the beaches! Hope you have a memorable vacation. Be Safe.

Jerry & Carol Curtis
2406 Towlite