Need an expert opinion
I am purchasing my first RV and trying to see if I can purchase a FW. I have a 2005 Silverado 1500HD, which apparently has a max towing capacity or 7,500 lbs. I have not been able to find a FW light ...
Forum Discussion
Dave H M wrote:Reliving Life wrote:
Thanks all for your ideas. Looks like I need to do some more homework as I certainly don't want to get too much trailer for truck. Agree stopping is more of an issue that pulling. Thanks again. I knew this was better than asking any salesperson (truck or trailer).
I always wonder about the stopping issue. I have never seen test data to support the theory. Personally I rely on my trailer brakes to get things stopped. Yes I know the trailer brakes can fail, I can also be struck by lightning. I think some good advice has been given on the OP's truck aside from the 1500 dissing that automatically goes on.
The correct answer to whether the truck or trailer brakes stop the trailer, is like many things "both" and "it depends". Helpful, huh? :)
I spent a lot of time studying this because I'm an engineer (not automotive) and sometimes I just can't help myself.
Each axle on the truck and trailer can only exert a stopping force proportional to the amount of weight that it is supporting during the stop. The truck will stop it's own weight and the tongue or pin weight of the trailer, and the trailer will stop the weight on its axles.
A complicating factor is that during heavy braking, the weight shifts. With a fifth wheel, a lot of weight is going to be shifted to the front axle of the truck.
During more moderate braking (descending a hill, for example) weight transfer is less of a factor.
