lluttrell
Longmont, CO
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Joined: 11/02/2001
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We have found that toad brakes make a very significant difference in our stopping distance. No matter how carefully you drive, there will come a time when you need to stop quickly. I would recommend that you have brakes for any toad whether or not the law requires it.
Lyle & Marilyn
2008 Cambria 29H
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Deen
Vancouver, WA
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Joined: 12/07/2000
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To the contrary of what some people say I'm sure that MotorHome and FMCA would not print a chart listing those states requiring brakes if their attorneys had not looked it over and checked it before publication.
There are also some that think a toad is not a trailer, but calling something else doesn't erase the laws of physics!! 3,000 lbs. of weight is still 3,000 lbs, whether it has an engine or it's just a load of sand. It weighs the same and takes the same force to stop. Get the brakes, you won't be sorry.
Also, Ford and I believe Workhorse REQUIRE aux. brakes if the toad weight exceeds 1,500 lbs or they can void your wranty. It's in the owners manual.
*This Message was edited on 12-Feb-03 11:38 PM by Deen*
Deen - Vancouver, WA
'02 Dutch Star 4090 (41+', triple slide)
435/1200 ISC Cummins/Banks PowerPak
'08 Honda Civic/dolly
'05 Honda Odyssey/dolly
NRA Benefactor and Recruiter
FMCA f47302s, Life Member: Good Sam,
Newmar DP Owners Group
52nd yr of RV'ing
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dons2346
Sioux Falls, SD, formerly of So. CA
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Joined: 11/21/2001
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Just to be on the safe side, yes you should install a brake system. I also have a 40 ft DP and pull a Jeep GC. I can tell the difference between having the toad brakes hooked up and not. Some states call for brakes on anything towed if it weighs over a certain amount although in the case of CA, towed motor vehicles are exempt from that requirement. I didn't believe untill I read it myself.
Don
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msmith1199
Central, CA
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Joined: 10/07/2001
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Deen, "To the contrary of what some people say I'm sure that MotorHome and FMCA would not print a chart listing those states requiring brakes if their attorneys had not looked it over and checked it before publication."
Then they need some new attorneys because the ones they have can't read a vehicle code.
2004 National Tropi-Cal T-350, Class A, Triple slide, 330 HP Cat DP.
2006 Dodge Dakota 4x4 or
2002 Harley FLSTF Fat Boy on a Trailer or
2004 Polaris Quad on the Trailer
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bsinmich
Holland, MI
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Joined: 11/18/2000
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Only towing a Jeep Cherokee is a heavy toad. You will find one or two people on the forum who are trying to support their attitude. Brakes are very important when towing. I have towed with and without and I will never be without brakes again.
2003 Newmar Mountain Aire, Workhorse W22, & 2002 PT Cruiser w/Remco lube pump, Falcon 5250, & US Gear Unified Tow Brake
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Phillerup
USA
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Joined: 10/15/2002
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In a bind and emergency stop, it is worth its weight in gold. May also alleviate insurance problems in the event of accident. Brakebuddy is easy to put in and take out.
2003 Newmar DSDP 4005 dual slide king bed Spartan 350 Cummins 2004 Jeep Liberty 4X4 tow, SeaEagle boat in basement
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JoeG
Henniker, NH
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Joined: 08/17/2001
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I added a Unified Tow Brake to my 2002 Jeep Wrangler and would not consider towing a TOAD without brakes. My motorhome stops far better with the TOAD than without. Law or no law this gives me a good feeling.
The Unified Tow Brake is not the least expensive unit out there but it is the best in my opinion. And there is no "hook up the brake" and "unhook the Brake". It is a permanent installation; just plug in the cord from the RV, connect the hitch and drive away.
JoeG
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waynev
Playing in Young, Az.
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Joined: 01/10/2003
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In addition to the increased safety with having toad brakes, you will not diminish your brake life as much as without. 1 brake job can cost almost as much as a auxillary braking system
*This Message was edited on 12-Feb-03 03:47 AM by waynev*
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Peralko
San Antonio, Texas
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Joined: 09/17/2001
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You'll note many of the responses that are adament about brakes making a big difference are gas motorhome owners. Toad brakes make a huge difference in a 16k to 22k gas motorhome. In a DP with engine or exhaust brakes, the difference is not that drastic. We hardly touch the service brake on a downhill towing the car--engine brake takes care of it. On my last coach, I sorely missed toad brakes several times, but did not have an incident. Toad brakes will decrease you stopping distance, but the difference won't be as pronounced as in a lighter coach.
Peralko
USAF Retired
95 Country Coach Affinity
2006 Nissan Maxima
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Jamru
Duncanville, TX, USA
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Joined: 05/19/2002
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Dirt Rod,
Did the compressor come with your coach or did you install it as after market equipment? If aftermarket, would you please give details regarding brand, capabilities and how/where you installed the unit.
Thanks.
Jamru
'02 35' WB Brave
'02 Chrysler Minivan Toad
Monroe Shocks
Falcon Tow Bar
Remco Lube Pump
Steer Safe
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