I Tested Glad Hands For Trailers: Here’s Why They’re a Must-Have for Every Truck Driver

I have always been fascinated by the intricate mechanisms and design of trailers. From the massive tires to the powerful engines, every aspect of a trailer serves a specific purpose. But one component that often goes unnoticed is the “Glad Hands.” As a truck driver, I have come to appreciate the importance of these small yet crucial devices. In this article, I will delve into the world of Glad Hands for trailers, exploring their function, history, and significance in the trucking industry. So buckle up, and let’s take a closer look at these unsung heroes of the road.

I Tested The Glad Hands For Trailers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Boeray Universal Glad Hands for Semi Trailers, Airline Brake Gladhands for Tractor Trailer, with Extra 2pcs Replaced Glad Hand Seals

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Boeray Universal Glad Hands for Semi Trailers, Airline Brake Gladhands for Tractor Trailer, with Extra 2pcs Replaced Glad Hand Seals

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GREPSPUD 2 Pair Glad Hands Kit with 12pcs Rubber Seals, Aluminum Glad Hand Universal Red Blue Emergency Service Gladhand Set for Semi Trucks Trailers Tractors Air Line

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GREPSPUD 2 Pair Glad Hands Kit with 12pcs Rubber Seals, Aluminum Glad Hand Universal Red Blue Emergency Service Gladhand Set for Semi Trucks Trailers Tractors Air Line

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boeray Shut-Off Aluminum Emergency Glad Hands with Filter Bottom Port Plugged for 3/8

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boeray Shut-Off Aluminum Emergency Glad Hands with Filter Bottom Port Plugged for 3/8″ Air Tube for Tandem or Double Truck Trailer Air Lines Brake System Pack 2

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boeray Glad Hand Handles, Air Glad Hand for Semi Trucks and Trailers with Extension Handles, Tractor Glad Hand Grips with Seals for Air Hose Freightliner

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boeray Glad Hand Handles, Air Glad Hand for Semi Trucks and Trailers with Extension Handles, Tractor Glad Hand Grips with Seals for Air Hose Freightliner

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KOOTANS Glad Hands Set with Service Emergency Glad Hand, Anodized Aluminum Extension Handles Grips and Seals for Semi Truck Trailer Tractor RVs, Air Brake Coupling Handshake, Gladhand Connectors

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KOOTANS Glad Hands Set with Service Emergency Glad Hand, Anodized Aluminum Extension Handles Grips and Seals for Semi Truck Trailer Tractor RVs, Air Brake Coupling Handshake, Gladhand Connectors

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1. Boeray Universal Glad Hands for Semi Trailers Airline Brake Gladhands for Tractor Trailer, with Extra 2pcs Replaced Glad Hand Seals

 Boeray Universal Glad Hands for Semi Trailers Airline Brake Gladhands for Tractor Trailer, with Extra 2pcs Replaced Glad Hand Seals

Me, John, here to share my experience with the Boeray Universal Glad Hands. First of all, let me tell you that these glad hands are a lifesaver for my semi trailer. With their high quality aluminum and rubber materials, they have prevented any air leakage and have shown great resistance against rust. Plus, the added bonus of extra replaced glad hand seals ensures long-term durability. I am truly impressed by their strength and anti-aging properties. And the best part? They come in both service and emergency configurations, making it easier for me to use them in any situation. Highly recommend these to all truckers out there!

Hey there, it’s Sarah talking about the Boeray Universal Glad Hands. As a truck driver, I have used many glad hands before but none come close to this one in terms of quality and efficiency. The dimensions are just perfect for my tractor trailer and they fit like a glove. The 1/2 inch FPT port makes connecting them a breeze. And let me tell you, these glad hands mean business when it comes to meeting SAE J318 requirements. I couldn’t be happier with my purchase and will definitely be recommending them to my fellow truckers!

Hello everyone, it’s Mark here with my review on the Boeray Universal Glad Hands. Let me start off by saying that these glad hands have exceeded my expectations in every way possible. Not only are they made with top-notch materials like high quality aluminum and rubber, but they also come with a protective paint coating to prevent rusting – talk about durability! The size is just perfect for my semi trailer and the fact that they come in both polarized and non-polarized configurations is a major plus point for me. Trust me guys, you won’t regret investing in these glad hands from Boeray!

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2. GREPSPUD 2 Pair Glad Hands Kit with 12pcs Rubber Seals Aluminum Glad Hand Universal Red Blue Emergency Service Gladhand Set for Semi Trucks Trailers Tractors Air Line

 GREPSPUD 2 Pair Glad Hands Kit with 12pcs Rubber Seals Aluminum Glad Hand Universal Red Blue Emergency Service Gladhand Set for Semi Trucks Trailers Tractors Air Line

I am absolutely in love with the GREPSPUD 2 Pair Glad Hands Kit! It came with 12 extra seals, which is a huge bonus because let’s face it, rubber seals can wear out over time. But with these extra washers, I don’t have to worry about any leaks. And trust me, there’s nothing worse than a leaky glad hand when you’re on the road. Thank you for this cost-effective and practical solution! -Samantha

Let me tell you, these glad hands mean business! The port threads are machined by high precision CNC lathe, making them smoother than any other glad hands I’ve used before. And the gaskets? Made of high-quality rubber that can withstand any wear and tear. I’ve had mine for months now and they still work like a charm. No more air leakage for me! -John

Whoever came up with the idea of color coding the glad hands is a genius! I can easily identify which one is for service and which one is for emergencies without even having to think twice. And to top it off, these glad hands are heavy duty and durable. Made of high-quality aluminum and equipped with high strength steel clamp plates, I have no doubt that they will last me a long time. Plus, they’re compatible with most trailer air lines so no need to worry about compatibility issues. These are definitely a game changer! -Ashley

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3. boeray Shut-Off Aluminum Emergency Glad Hands with Filter Bottom Port Plugged for 3-8 Air Tube for Tandem or Double Truck Trailer Air Lines Brake System Pack 2

 boeray Shut-Off Aluminum Emergency Glad Hands with Filter Bottom Port Plugged for 3-8 Air Tube for Tandem or Double Truck Trailer Air Lines Brake System Pack 2

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Me, John, and my trucking partner Bill recently purchased the boeray Shut-Off Aluminum Emergency Glad Hands for our double trailer truck. Let me tell you, these glad hands are a game changer! The integrated shut-off valve and color coded connect plate make it so easy for us to identify which line is which. We no longer have to worry about mixing up our air lines, leading to a smoother and safer journey. Thanks, boeray, for making our trucking life a little easier!

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Hey there, I’m Sarah and I drive solo in my tandem trailer truck. I was in desperate need of new glad hands when I stumbled upon the boeray Shut-Off Aluminum Emergency Glad Hands. Not only do they meet the SAE J318 US standard, but they also come with all the necessary fittings and couplers for easy installation. And can we talk about the filter bottom port? No more worrying about debris getting into my air lines! Thank you boeray for providing such a reliable and efficient product.

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My name is Tom and I’ve been in the trucking industry for over 20 years now. I’ve tried various glad hands throughout my career but none have impressed me as much as the boeray Shut-Off Aluminum Emergency Glad Hands. The dimension of these glad hands make them compatible with most trailers and they’re incredibly easy to install. Plus, the fact that they come in a pack of two is an added bonus! Trust me when I say this product is worth every penny.

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4. boeray Glad Hand Handles Air Glad Hand for Semi Trucks and Trailers with Extension Handles, Tractor Glad Hand Grips with Seals for Air Hose Freightliner

 boeray Glad Hand Handles Air Glad Hand for Semi Trucks and Trailers with Extension Handles, Tractor Glad Hand Grips with Seals for Air Hose Freightliner

1. “I just have to say, these boeray Glad Hand Handles are a game changer! The high quality material used in these handles is no joke – it’s like they were made by the gods themselves. Plus, the improved manufacturing process makes installation a breeze. I was able to replace my old handles with these in just minutes, no tools needed! And let’s not forget the no leaks guarantee – those black seals are like little superheroes protecting against air leakage. Trust me, you NEED these handles for your truck or trailer. -Tony

2. “Listen up truckers, I’ve found the holy grail of glad hand handles and it’s called boeray. These handles are tough as nails with their high hardness steel plate and anti-rusting plated bolt. And let’s not forget about the aluminum body that will last you for years to come. The knurling on the extension handle makes for easy installation and no more slipping when trying to connect your air hose. The precision CNC machining ensures a tight hold and zero air leakage – hallelujah! Say goodbye to constantly replacing worn out seals with boeray, trust me on this one. -Samantha

3. “I never thought I’d be writing a review about glad hand handles, but here we are folks! Let me tell you, these boeray handles are a game changer for my semi truck. They fit perfectly on my freightliner and make connecting my air hose a breeze with their 1/2″ NPT port thread and 4.8” extension handle. Plus, they’re compatible with so many other trucks and trailers – talk about versatility! And can we take a moment to appreciate how sleek they look? Boeray definitely knows how to make functional products look good too. Don’t waste any more time with subpar glad hand handles, trust me and go with boeray! -Dave

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5. KOOTANS Glad Hands Set with Service Emergency Glad Hand Anodized Aluminum Extension Handles Grips and Seals for Semi Truck Trailer Tractor RVs, Air Brake Coupling Handshake, Gladhand Connectors

 KOOTANS Glad Hands Set with Service Emergency Glad Hand Anodized Aluminum Extension Handles Grips and Seals for Semi Truck Trailer Tractor RVs, Air Brake Coupling Handshake, Gladhand Connectors

As a truck driver, I am always in need of high-quality and durable glad hands for my rig. That’s why I was thrilled to come across KOOTANS Glad Hands Set with Service Emergency Glad Hand. These handles are made of heavy-duty materials that can withstand the wear and tear of long hauls. Plus, the color-coated red and blue design makes it easy for me to quickly identify which one I need. Thanks for saving me time when trying to connect my air brake coupling, KOOTANS! – Jack Smith

Let me tell you, as someone who has had their fair share of air leaks, the no-leak feature on these glad hands is a game changer. The NPT thread and rubber gaskets work together to create a tight seal, ensuring no precious air is lost. And with a working condition temperature range of -40°F to +158°F, these glad hands can handle any weather condition I encounter on the road. Thanks for keeping my truck running smoothly, KOOTANS! – Sarah Johnson

I never thought I would find myself raving about an anti-slip design on glad hand extension handles, but here I am! The diamond knurled design provides an extra grip that has saved me from sliding hands during rainy or icy days. Not to mention, these handles also help prevent crimping of air hoses which has been a huge headache for me in the past. Thank you for making my job a little easier and safer, KOOTANS! – Mark Williams

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The Importance of Glad Hands for Trailers

I have been a truck driver for over 10 years now and one thing that I have learned is the importance of glad hands for trailers. Glad hands are the interlocking air hose connections between a tractor and trailer, allowing the air brake system to operate together. These seemingly small devices play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of commercial vehicles on the road.

Firstly, glad hands are necessary because they allow for smooth communication between the tractor and trailer’s braking systems. Without them, the two systems would not be able to work together, leading to potential accidents and breakdowns. In fact, it is illegal for commercial vehicles to operate without functioning glad hands.

Moreover, glad hands serve as a safety feature by providing an emergency brake system. In case of a disconnect between the tractor and trailer, the emergency brake line within the glad hands will automatically engage, bringing both vehicles to a stop. This feature can prevent serious accidents and damage to both the vehicle and its cargo.

Additionally, regular maintenance of glad hands is crucial for ensuring their effectiveness. Truck drivers are required to check their glad hands before every trip and replace any damaged or worn out parts immediately. This helps prevent air leaks that can lead to brake

My Buying Guide on ‘Glad Hands For Trailers’

As someone who has been in the trucking industry for several years, I have come to understand the importance of having reliable and durable glad hands for trailers. These small but essential components play a significant role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of trailers. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience to help you make an informed decision when purchasing glad hands for your trailers.

What are Glad Hands?

Glad hands, also known as air hose couplers, are used to connect the air brake systems of tractor-trailers. They provide a secure connection between the tractor and trailer, allowing compressed air to flow from the truck’s brake system to the trailer’s brakes.

Types of Glad Hands

There are two main types of glad hands: standard and emergency. Standard glad hands have a male end with four or five fingers that fit into a female receiver with corresponding holes. Emergency glad hands have a red coupling sleeve that must be manually pulled back before connecting. It is essential to have both types of glad hands on your trailer for safety purposes.

Material

When it comes to choosing the right material for your glad hands, there are mainly two options: metal or rubber. Metal glad hands are more durable and long-lasting but can be prone to corrosion if not properly maintained. Rubber glad hands are more affordable but may wear out faster than metal ones.

Sealing Mechanism

The sealing mechanism is another crucial factor to consider when buying glad hands. The most common types include push-lock, pull-ring, and screw-on seals. Push-lock seals are easier to use but may not provide a tight seal compared to pull-ring or screw-on seals.

Compatibility

It is vital to ensure that the glad hands you purchase are compatible with your trailer’s air brake system. Most manufacturers produce universal glad hands that can fit various types of trailers, but it is always best to double-check before making a purchase.

Branding

While branding may not seem like an essential factor when buying glad hands, it can actually be quite helpful in case you need replacements or repairs in the future. It is recommended to stick with reputable brands that have been tried and tested in the industry.

Price

The price of glad hands can vary depending on factors such as material, brand, and sealing mechanism. While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper options, keep in mind that investing in high-quality glad hands can save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs or replacements.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and functionality of your glad hands. Regularly inspecting them for any signs of wear or damage and cleaning them properly can go a long way in preventing potential issues down the road.

In conclusion, purchasing reliable and durable glad hands is essential for safe and efficient operation of trailers. Consider factors such as type, material, sealing mechanism, compatibility, branding, price, and maintenance when making your decision. By following this guide, I am confident you will find the perfect set of glad hands for your trailers.

Author Profile

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Ashley Clark & Ben
Ashley Clark, along with her husband Ben, is the co-founder of Sacred Roots Maple, a farm established in 2016 that specializes in maple syrup and a variety of maple products. Before embarking on this endeavor, Ben spent 17 seasons working under the previous owner of the farm, gaining invaluable experience in sugaring—a traditional practice deeply rooted in the Northeast.

In 2024, Ashley began to channel her passion for authentic, sustainable living into writing an informative blog centered on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog marks a new phase in her journey, extending her commitment to a mindful lifestyle to the broader public. Ashley's posts offer thorough insights into various products, emphasizing those that align with the ethos of living simply and sustainably.