All Bowden Cables
Bowden cables are flexible mechanical components essential for transmitting push, pull, or rotational movements in various trailer applications, including braking systems. They consist of a rigid or flexible inner core encased in wire and plastic sheathing, providing protection against dirt and rust. Sourced from industry-leading brands like AL-KO, KNOTT, and Bradley, these cables are designed to withstand significant stress, ensuring reliable performance under various operating conditions.
On a braked trailer, the Bowden cable is what physically operates the overrun brakes during normal towing, transmitting the coupling's braking action to the brake linkage at each wheel. This is different to a breakaway cable, which only activates the brakes if the trailer becomes accidentally uncoupled - see our FAQ below for more detail.
Keep alongside linkage parts and backplate assemblies, and match with branded systems such as Knott brakes. All Bowden cables are in UK stock for fast delivery.
Bowden Cables Guide
Bowden cables are flexible mechanical components essential for transmitting push, pull, or rotational movements in various trailer applications, including braking systems. They consist of a rigid or flexible inner core encased in wire and plastic sheathing, providing protection against dirt and rust. Sourced from industry-leading brands like AL-KO, KNOTT, and Bradley, these cables are designed to withstand significant stress, ensuring reliable performance under various operating conditions.
On a braked trailer, the Bowden cable is what physically operates the overrun brakes during normal towing, transmitting the coupling's braking action to the brake linkage at each wheel. This is different to a breakaway cable, which only activates the brakes if the trailer becomes accidentally uncoupled - see our FAQ below for more detail.
Keep alongside linkage parts and backplate assemblies, and match with branded systems such as Knott brakes. All Bowden cables are in UK stock for fast delivery.
Bowden Cables FAQs
What is a Bowden cable?
A Bowden cable is a flexible mechanical cable made up of an inner core running inside an outer wire and plastic sheath, used to transmit push or pull movement from one point to another - on a trailer, that's usually from the coupling to the brake linkage.
How does a Bowden cable work on a trailer?
As the tow vehicle brakes and the trailer runs on into its coupling, the coupling mechanism pulls the Bowden cable, which transfers that movement to the brake shoes at each wheel, applying the trailer's overrun brakes.
Is a Bowden cable the same as a breakaway cable?
No. The Bowden cable operates the brakes during normal towing. A breakaway cable is a separate safety device that only applies the brakes if the trailer becomes accidentally uncoupled from the tow vehicle.
How do I know if my Bowden cable needs replacing?
Signs include stiff or sticky brake operation, fraying or corrosion visible on the cable, a cracked outer sheath, or the trailer brakes feeling inconsistent between wheels. Check the cable as part of any brake inspection or adjustment.
Do you supply Bowden cables to suit AL-KO, Knott and Bradley couplings?
Yes, we stock Bowden cables to suit these brands and a range of compressor and light tower applications, in various inner and outer length combinations.
How do I choose the right Bowden cable length?
Match both the outer sheath length and inner core length to your existing cable, or to your coupling and axle manufacturer's specification. Getting either measurement wrong will affect brake travel and adjustment.
Related Brake Parts
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If you need any help, don't hesitate to contact us, and we'll help to find you the right part, so you can Keep Moving.