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Why Overrun Dampers Are Essential for Trailers
When it comes to trailer towing in the UK, safety and stability are non-negotiable. An overrun damper, also known as a drawbar shock absorber, plays a critical role in moderating the forces between towing vehicle and trailer whenever brakes are applied. Without an effective damper, abrupt braking can lead to harsh impacts, jerks, increased wear on coupling components, and even reduced control of the trailer.
Overrun dampers help in:
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Reducing jerk and shock loads on the coupling and drawbar assembly
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Improving braking smoothness, particularly important in wet or slippery conditions
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Minimising wear and tear on chassis, coupling balls, mounting brackets, and suspension components
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Enhancing driver comfort and control, especially on uneven roads or when overtaking or decelerating rapidly
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Ensuring compliance and better performance with trailer braking systems
In the highly regulated UK market, having a properly functioning overrun damper isn’t just about comfort—it can impact safety, liability, and longevity of your trailer.
What Makes a Great Overrun Damper?
Not all dampers are created equal. The best dampers combine quality materials, careful engineering, correct fitting, and compatibility. When selecting an overrun damper, consider the following:
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Type & Compatibility
– Brand compatibility (ALKO, BPW, Knott, Westfalia, etc.)
– Matching stroke length and mounting type
– Threaded vs non-threaded versions
– Specific models for light trailers vs heavier commercial ones -
Build Quality
– Rust-resistant and weather-proof materials (galvanised steel, powder coated, etc.)
– High quality seals to prevent ingress of dust, water, grit -
Damping Performance
– Ability to absorb dynamic forces, especially under braking from speed
– Smooth dampening without binding or harsh “lock up”
– Balanced compliance – firm enough to control, soft enough to avoid harshness -
Durability & Maintenance
– Easy serviceability (replacement parts available)
– Long service life under heavy use
– Spare parts supported by the manufacturer -
Safety & Legal Considerations
– Correct for the trailer’s gross weight (GVW)
– Proper installation so that the damper is aligned and effective
– Ensuring it works with the trailer’s braking system for optimal performance
AFATEK’s Overrun Damper Catalogue: Top Brands & Models
At AFATEK, we stock a wide and carefully selected range of overrun dampers to meet the demanding needs of trailer owners in the UK. Our inventory spans high-quality dampers from leading manufacturers such as:
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ALKO / Kober
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BPW
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Knott
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Westfalia
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Peitz
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Grau / Grümer
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Schlegl
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WAP
Each brand offers its own specialty models suited to different weights, drawbar types, and braking systems. Whether your trailer is used occasionally for leisure, frequently for business, or for heavy loads, we have dampers built for your situation.
How To Choose the Right Overrun Damper: A Step-By-Step Guide
To ensure optimum performance and safety, follow this simple process when choosing your overrun damper:
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Check your trailer’s braking brand – Is it ALKO, BPW, Knott etc.?
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Identify the part number if possible, from your existing damper or mounting hardware.
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Measure stroke length / mounting type – distance, threads, fittings.
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Check Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of your trailer to select strength/class of damper.
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Review environmental exposure – if exposed to marine or wet salt roads, choose dampers with superior corrosion protection.
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Consult with AFATEK support if unsure – we can help match models.
Benefits of Buying Overrun Dampers from AFATEK
Choosing AFATEK for your overrun dampers gives you several advantages:
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Extensive Range – We carry many models and spare parts for brands like ALKO, BPW, Knott, Westfalia etc. Trailer spare parts
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Competitive Pricing & Frequent Offers – We offer good value and often discount selected dampers. Trailer spare parts
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Fast UK Delivery – Reliable shipping, with tracking and fair shipping fees.
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Quality Assurance – Original components, well manufactured, tested to endure UK road conditions.
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Expert Advice – Our customer service can help with part identification, compatibility, installation tips.
Installation & Maintenance Tips
Even the best dampers won’t perform properly if installed or maintained incorrectly. Here are some tips:
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Always fit the damper exactly per manufacturer instructions – alignment, grease points, torque settings.
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Keep the damper clean; remove mud, grit or salt regularly, inspect for wear or damage.
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Check for loosening of bolts, damaged bushings or seals, which can reduce performance and safety.
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Replace the damper or its components at the first sign of leak, noise, or loss of damping control.
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For trailers used in harsh weather or salty roads, more frequent inspections are essential.
Common Questions & Myths About Overrun Dampers
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Does a larger or heavier damper always mean better braking?
Not necessarily. Matching damper strength to the vehicle-trailer combination and brake system is more important than over-sizing. Too stiff a damper may make braking harsh; too weak and you lose control. -
Will a new damper eliminate all trailer “nose-droop” during braking?
It will reduce it significantly, but other factors like load distribution, suspension condition, and coupling wear also matter. -
Are OEM dampers always needed, or are aftermarket ones acceptable?
High-quality aftermarket dampers from reputable brands can perform excellently. Key is matching specifications, quality, and compatibility. -
How long do overrun dampers last?
Depends heavily on usage, load, environment. In typical UK towing with moderate loads, a good damper may last many years; heavy, frequent use in harsh environments shortens life.
Why Overrun Dampers Influence Resale, Safety & Insurance
Many trailer inspections (MOT-style, commercial) check the drawbar/braking system carefully. A worn or ineffective damper can be seen as a safety risk. For commercial trailers, insurance or liability claims following accidents may be affected if trailer braking components are found deficient. For resale value, trailers with well-maintained, correctly specified damping setup command a higher price.
Summary & Call to Action
Your trailer’s overrun damper is a small component with a big job: ensuring smooth braking, protecting your vehicle and trailer, and keeping you safe on British roads. Whether you need replacement parts for BPW dampers, an upgraded ALKO unit, or a Knott drawbar shock absorber, AFATEK has the stock, the quality, and the knowledge to help.
Don’t wait until a problem occurs. Browse our overrun damper range today — find your exact fit, order with confidence, and drive knowing your trailer is equipped for safety and performance.
